Correct spelling: Magnolia — soulangeana or soulangiana?

Discussion in 'Plants: Nomenclature and Taxonomy' started by wcutler, Nov 18, 2012.

  1. wcutler

    wcutler Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator VCBF Cherry Scout 10 Years

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    Is one of these correct, or are they just synonyms and it doesn't matter which is used? I see a common name of "Soulange Magnolia". Would that make "soulangeana" correct, using the "e" from M. Soulange-Bodin's name? (You can read quite a bit about him and this magnolia, which wasn't originally the point of this question).

    Google reports 177,000 vs. 151,000, but returns both on either query. Is there a resource that's THE reference?

    References using the spelling Magnolia × soulangeana:

    Using Magnolia × soulangiana

     
  2. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Magnolia soulangeana is the correct spelling, under the provisions of ICBN Art. 60.11.
     
  3. wcutler

    wcutler Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator VCBF Cherry Scout 10 Years

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    Thanks, Michael. I'm wondering if I've been referred to that document before and have forgotten.

    60.11 says that termination (for example -i, ...) contrary to Rec. 60C.1 is treated as an error to be corrected. Recommendation 60C.1.c says "If the personal name ends with a vowel, adjectival epithets are formed by adding -an- plus...".

    So it is Soulange, add "ana".
     

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