Genus
A rank in plant classification that groups together closely related species sharing many characteristics—typically more alike than plants grouped only at the family level. A genus forms the first part of a plant’s two-part scientific name; for example, in the oaks (Quercus), Quercus rubra (red oak) and Quercus alba (white oak) belong to the same genus. Knowing a plant’s genus helps with identifying it and understanding its closest relatives.
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The genus is the first word in a scientific plant name, such as Quercus for oaks or Acer for maples.
