Nomenclator Clematidum

This monograph is the first comprehensive treatment of the convoluted nomenclature of all generic and infrageneric designations and names above the rank of species that, according to current understanding, belong to the genus Clematis (Ranunculaceae). The large and horticulturally highly significant genus Clematis has a complex taxonomic and nomenclatural history. This resulted in the widespread use of nomenclaturally erroneous names in works dealing with the genus even up to day. Through a total of 372 entries, the authors examine designations and names published in botanical literature, from the nomenclatural starting point, Linnaeus’s Species plantarum, up to present day, and evaluate each of them through a rigorous nomenclatural filter. Many names in common use are shown to be nomenclaturally problematic in one way or another. After critical evaluation, 181 remaining names represent those that can be applied, under the rules of botanical nomenclature, for generic and infrageneric taxa above the rank of species within Clematis s.l. These applicable names are also presented in a tabular form with all their nomenclatural synonyms and the order of chosen priorities. Depending on how the genus is taxonomically subdivided, it is now possible to find, easily and from a single source, the correct name for each subdivision that complies with the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants. At the same time, this work constitutes the most comprehensive bibliography ever published on the taxonomic literature of Clematis. It covers not only all major and classical taxonomic works on the genus, but also numerous publications previously overlooked by others, many of which prove to be nomenclaturally crucial. This monograph serves as an essential reference source and an indispensable handbook for anyone working on the nomenclatural or taxonomic research on Clematis.