The essence of the term «xenophyte» and its place in the system of alien plants

The place of the term «xenophyte» in the system of alien (аdventive) plants is discussed. Attention is drawn to the use of this term by botanists in three different meanings: 1) referring to unintentionally introduced plants; 2) to denominate plants introduced into the study area from other areas not having direct contacts with it; 3) to indicate pants, introduced into the study area from both remote and contact geographical areas. It is shown that the third point of view seems to be more correct. Taken into account in an expanded interpretation, this term is more relevant than any other referring to alien plants. To name a group of unintentionally introduced plants, the term «aboiletophyte» can be recommended.