Nomenclature Question

[Rick Goodenough]

I am no nomenclature wonk, but have been puzzled by the occasional use of Latinized terms as cultivar epithets for galanthus. My understanding that the International Code of Nomenclature for Cultivated Plants (ICNCP), which may or may not have a say in the galanthus world no longer recognizes such naming conventions at the cultivar level.

A couple of examples come to mind, G. Galanthus nivalis 'Virescens' and galanthus nivalis 'Poculiformis'. 

Just curious if anyone has information on this topic as I found it to be of interest, but of no great concern. Thank you. Rick

[Alan_b]

These are old old snowdrops.  They could not be so-named today but the ICNCP does not force names that pre-date a a particular rule to be revised.  I think anyone, galanthophile or not, ignores the ICNCP rules at their peril.  You can read the 8th Edition of the Code online here http://www.actahort.org/chronica/pdf/sh_10.pdf ; I don't know if this edition is the latest one.   

[Rick Goodenough]

Alan, thank you very much for your comment and for the link. I am still reading through, and find it an excellent if exhaustive treatment of nomenclature standardization which has already been bookmarked on my desktop. A must read for serious collectors, hybridizers, etc...very helpful. Rick

[johnw]

I wonder how 'Nova Scotia' would fly with the powers that be as a cultivar name. Have no intention of testing the waters, if you get a refusal the name is likely to be put to rest.

Good reason for the ban as for the example the old ironclad rhododendrons are highly confusing - the old hybrid 'Catawbiense Album' which novices think is the white form of R. catawbiense = i.e R. catawbiense v. album, no so.

[Alan_b]

According to 21.12, Nova Scotia, being a place name in modern usage, would not present a problem as a cultivar name, John.

[johnw]

Good to know Alan. I've restricted myself to 'Scotian" this and that.

johnw