Latin in botany: a summary

[Mark Garland]

I've learned many interesting things about botanical Latin from this thread:

(1) It has near algorithmic precision, like the computer language Cobol.

(2) le latin est, entre autres, clairement une reponse a l'oppression neo-
colonialiste et imperialiste.

(3)  We need to use it so as not to inadvertently write "Death to"  when we
mean "Go to hell."

Though these are strong arguments for keeping Latin for botanical
descriptions, I remain unconvinced that it is being used effectively today.
Mandating English for descriptions is another matter.  My suggestion is not to
mandate anything and see what happens.  My guess is that botanical taxonomy
will survive.  But what do I know?  I grew up speaking English.

Amicably,

Mark A. Garland
Florida Department of Environmental Protection