Since Latin became the standard language for plant naming in the
eighteenth century, it has been intrinsically linked with botany. And
while mastery of the classical language may not be a prerequisite for
tending perennials, all gardeners stand to benefit from learning a bit
of Latin and its conventions in the field. Without it, they might buy a
Hellebores foetidus and be unprepared for its fetid smell, or a
Potentilla reptans with the expectation that it will stand straight as
a sentinel rather than creep along the ground.
An essential addition to the gardener's library, this colorful, fully
illustrated book details the history of naming plants, provides an
overview of Latin naming conventions, and offers guidelines for
pronunciation. Readers will learn to identify Latin terms that indicate
the provenance of a given plant and provide clues to its color, shape,
fragrance, taste, behavior, functions, and more.
Full of expert instruction and practical guidance, Latin for Gardeners
will allow novices and green thumbs alike to better appreciate the
seemingly esoteric names behind the plants they work with, and to
expertly converse with fellow enthusiasts. Soon they will realize that
having a basic understanding of Latin before trips to the nursery or
botanic garden is like possessing some knowledge of French before
traveling to Paris; it enriches the whole experience.
