Abstract. A brief biography of Thunberg is presented with an analysis of the antiquated taxonomic convention of “alpha” and “beta” varieties. Each species described by Thunberg in his 1784 and 1815 works is reviewed. The original voucher specimens used by Thunberg were located within his personal collection, now housed at the Museum of Evolution, Uppsala University. These specimens were photographed and compared to their published descriptions. Historical literature following Thunberg’s publications was assessed for taxonomic accuracy.