odoratum

Odoratum is a Latin adjective used as a specific epithet in the scientific names of various organisms. It derives from odoratus (fragrant) and corresponds to the neuter form odoratum to agree with neuter genus names in Latin grammar, in contrast to odoratus or odorata which align with masculine or feminine genera. In taxonomy, odoratum functions as a descriptor rather than a rank, signaling that the species is noted for a distinctive scent, such as the fragrance of flowers, leaves, or essential oils.

The epithet appears across different biological groups, most commonly in plants, but it has historical usage in other kingdoms as well. As with other specific epithets, odoratum is not a stand-alone taxon; it is part of a binomial name that combines a genus with a species epithet. Over time, many odoratum-bearing names have been revised or relegated to synonyms as classifications are updated and botanical understanding evolves.

In modern taxonomy, odoratum can persist in historical literature and herbarium records, appearing alongside current accepted names. The term remains of interest to botanists and taxonomists studying the history of plant nomenclature and the way scent-related traits are captured in Linnaean naming practices. See also: specific epithet, Latin in taxonomy, binomial nomenclature.