Scientific and common names have their problems, as shown in some previous topics:
- Scientific name Vs. Common name?
- Offensive scientific names
- Managing offensive common names
- Decolonization of Common Names
- Name Changes for Plant Taxa
Personally, I prefer to use the scientific name if it’s written since it’s less ambiguous, but a shorter common name can be less confusing when talking or listening in person (e.g. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)). However, it’s pretty common for naturalists in groups to use scientific names in conversation so it’s worth learning, eventually.
Native names are a difficult topic. If the group from which they come is a minority within the area, it’s hard to see how to encourage their use amongst more people when a more widely used common name is available.