What does the term "plant taxonomy" refer to?

The term "plant taxonomy" specifically refers to the science of classifying and naming plants. This field focuses on identifying, describing, and categorizing plants into hierarchical groups based on shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. Understanding plant taxonomy is essential for botanists, horticulturists, and anyone involved in plant science, as it provides a systematic framework for organizing plant diversity and facilitating communication about plant species.

The other options, while related to plant science, do not accurately define plant taxonomy. The study of plant growth patterns pertains more to plant physiology and ecology rather than classification. Altering plant genetics falls under plant genetics and biotechnology, addressing how genetic manipulation affects plants. Growing plants indoors is related to horticulture and cultivation practices, but it does not involve the systematic classification or naming of plants. Each of these areas serves different purposes within the broader field of botany but does not encompass the definition of plant taxonomy.