Dear Sarah,
 
     Since you are a serious student, it is best to learn the latin names.
You tend to pick up the common names as you go along- but take them lightly,
because someone in Italy,for example, may not recognize the "American"
vernacular.  A Phalium is a Phalium the world over, but a Scotch Bonnet may be
known mainly to Americans or english speaking collectors.  You are right about
learning from books, It is the #1 way of expanding your shell knowledge.  I
have a general knowledge of the cones from the area you are studying....so
email me  [log in to unmask], if you have questions about these.
 
Sincerely,    Matt