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Why Do Most Plant Family Names End in "-aceae"?

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Plant I.D. image by Laura Watson If you've ever looked at scientific plant names , you might have noticed a pattern—most plant family names end in "-aceae" (like Orchidaceae for orchids or Rosaceae for roses ). But why is that? A Rule of Botanical Naming The "-aceae" ending comes from the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN) , the system that regulates how plants are scientifically named. This suffix helps standardize plant classification and makes it easier for botanists to group related species. How Are Family Names Created? Plant family names are typically based on the name of a key genus within that family. For example: Rosaceae comes from Rosa (roses) Orchidaceae comes from Orchis (a type of orchid) This method ensures a logical connection between plant names and their broader family groupings. A Few Exceptions Before the "-aceae" rule was enforced, some families had different names, like Com...
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Edith Holden: The Edwardian Botanical Artist Behind "The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady"

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The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady , pages 103-104, photo by Laura Watson, 2024 The name Edith Holden may not have been widely recognized in her time, but today, she is celebrated as one of the most beloved Edwardian botanical artists. Her work, The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady , beautifully captures the flora and fauna of early 20th-century England, inspiring modern-day nature enthusiasts, artists, and environmentalists alike. This article delves into Holden's life, her artistic style, and the enduring legacy of her work. Early Life and Education Edith Holden was born on September 26, 1871, in Kings Norton, Birmingham, England. She grew up in a creative and supportive family, with both of her parents encouraging artistic pursuits. Holden's artistic journey began at the Birmingham School of Art, where she studied painting and illustration. Here, she developed the skills that would later define her career as a botanical artist. The late 19th and early 20th centuries we...
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DIY Willow Rooting Hormone: A Natural Alternative

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As gardening season approaches, I've been feeling inspired by nature and how it can support our gardening efforts. Recently, I was reading The Boreal Herbal by Beverly Grey, and I discovered that you can make your own natural rooting hormone using willow branches. Rooting hormone helps plant cuttings grow roots, turning them into new plants. Many store-bought rooting hormones are full of chemicals that some of us might prefer to avoid, so the idea of using willow caught my attention. Willow, which can grow as a tree or shrub, is abundant across North America. There are many species of willow, all belonging to the genus Salix, and any of these species will work for this project. It’s easy to find and an eco-friendly option for helping your plants thrive. How to Make Your Own Willow Rooting Hormone Here’s a simple method to make your own willow rooting hormone at home: 1. Gather Your Willow Branches:  Collect a handful of fresh willow branches. Look for young, green shoots, as they...
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