Carl Von Linné, aka Linnaeus came up with the binomial system of nomenclature, in which each species is identified by a generic name (genus) and a specific name (species). His 1753 publication, Species Plantarum, which described the new classification system, marked the beginning of the new naming system that we still use today.

This contribution to science is important for a variety of reasons. The top two reasons are:

1) The binomial system of nomenclature is governed by international codes and is used by biologists worldwide. Common names however vary vary from place to place.

This new universal language of binomial nomenclature allowed plant knowledge, and specifically plant medicine to be shared globally.

2) Compared to the polynomial system which it replaced, a binomial name is shorter and easier to remember. Trust me, this matters especially when you are a botany student learning about hundreds of new species as you tromp around in the woods.

I sure do miss those days of botanizing out in the wild and appreciate that we were taught shorter, globally-recognized names.