Quick question.... What is the proper pronunciation of "cotoneaster"? Thanks, this could help clear up some confusion.
Many thanks! There were 3 people at work with three different pronunciations. I had it totally wrong and am glad to be corrected.
globalist1789 & MichaelF here is a guide that I knew I had a lin k to but couldn't place it yesterday http://www.homeandgardensite.com/pronunciation.htm well there are some things in there that I don't agree with but I think it was PT Barnham that said "keep a straight face and you can tell them anything" anyway say it with gusto and aplomb and you will be half way there
There are a few variations, but most are fairly close. Just depends on the characters chosen. Koh - to'nee - aster Would be my style. I read about 6 versions online yesterday. I'd imagine it would be interesting to hear Brits, Australians and the various America country folks all pronounce it.
Yes: there really are no universally correct botanical pronunciations just as there are no correct common names. "Botanical Latin is essentially a written language, but the scientific names of plants often occur in speech. How they are pronounced really matters little provided they sound pleasant and are understood by all concerned. This is most likely to be attained by pronouncing them in accordance with the rules of classical Latin pronunciation. There are, however, several systems, since people tend to pronounce Latin words by analogy with words of their own language." --W. T. Stearn, BOTANICAL LATIN - FOURTH EDITION (D&C)
How about clem-A'-tis versus CLEM'-a-tis? I've heard both around here, with people in both camps insisting that their version is the correct pronounciation.
sweet woodruff you say toe-may-to I say to-mah-to or there abouts... http://www.homeandgardensite.com/pronunciation.htm http://www.taunton.com/finegardening/pguide/pronunciation-guide-to-botanical-latin.aspx both are acceptable no right or wrong but you chose which one sits best with you and say it with gusto and aplomb and you will be half way there!!