Botanical nomenclature

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Botanical nomenclature

Plants are given formal names, governed by the ICBN. Within the limits set by the ICBN there is a separate set of rules, the ICNCP, for those plants in cultivation that require separate recognition, so-called cultivars. Within the limits set by the ICNCP there is a separate set of rules for orchid hybrids.

Botanical nomenclature is closely linked to plant taxonomy, serves plant taxonomy but is separate from plant taxonomy. Plant taxonomy is an empirical science that determines what constitutes a particular taxon. Botanical nomenclature is merely the body of rules prescribing which name applies to that taxon, and if a new name may (or must) be coined.

For animals there is the ICZN which is based on the same principles (priority, the use of types), but which differs both in details and terminology. Notably, the word "valid" means something else entirely.