What's in a Name? - the meanings of the botanical names of trees

Hugh Glen, 2004
Jacana/Sappi, Johannesburg. Paperback, 80 pages, 165x235mm.
ISBN: 1-77009-040-1 R80.00
available from South African bookshops or http://www.jacana.co.za/

Like all living organisms, trees are named according to Linnaeus' system of classification. This involves a family allocation, as well as a genus and species name, and often too, a subspecies epithet. In the majority of cases, the names given are of Latin or Greek origin, and mean precious little to anyone who has no understanding of these classical languages. But because the names given to organisms either describe a feature, or celebrate an individual, they can be both useful (in terms of identity) and fascinating.

This slim volume is a mine of information, and will make botany and an interest in plants all the more absorbing. We learn, for example, that 'Dombeya rotundifolia' gets its name from Joseph Dombey (1742-1794) who botanised in South America, and 'rotundifolia' means (unsurprisingly) 'round-leaved'. Every species of indigenous and popularly cultivated plant in South Africa is covered in a dictionary style, with nearly 4000 definitions. There are also some small line drawings of particular plants, and a few charming cartoons.

Since plants, more so than birds or mammals, are best known by their botanical names (the English and other vernacular names are often rather confusing), this book is particularly useful and long overdue. Hugh Glen is to be heartily congratulated for a fine job well done. At such an inexpensive price, this terrific little book should appeal to naturalists and gardeners alike.

- Duncan Butchart -

Posted: Plants by CC Africa, Date: 22 November 2006