Phases of the nomenclature process
Nomenclature is normally based on precedence of publication. Each cultivar can bear only one accepted epithet, generally the earliest published that is in accordance with the rules of the Cultivated Plant Code. Here follows the natural order of the nomenclatural process for fixing epithets:
Distribution of printed or similarly duplicated matter (through sale, exchange or gift) to the general public or at least to botanical, agricultural, forestry or horticultural institutions with libraries accessible to the botanists, agriculturists, foresters or horticulturists generally. It is NOT affected by communications at a public meeting, by placing "names" on labels in collections or gardens open to the public, microforms made from manuscripts, typescripts or other unpublished material, publication via electronic media, publication in confidential trade lists which are not made generally available. Publication in newspapers and other media that are not supposed to last is not accepted. Copy of the publication should be sent to the International Cultivar Registration Authority (ICRA).
a) appear in a dated publication;
b) conform to the spelling rules of the Cultivated Plant Code;
c) be accompanied by a description or diagnosis or by a reference to a previously published description or diagnosis;
d) be accepted by the author who publishes it;
e) correspond to an existing cultivar (no reserved names).
A cultivar epithet is not established against the expressed wish of its originator, unless the originator (or his assignee) has already knowingly distributed the cultivar without a proposed cultivar epithet. Herbarium or living material should be sent to ICRA or to a public herbarium specialized in the collection and maintenance of standard portfolios. The date for the establishment of precedence is that of establishment, not that of publication.