What do we call the common name used by the general public for a plant?

The term referred to in the question is the "common name." This designation is widely used by the general public to identify plants, as it is typically more familiar and easier to remember than their scientific or Latin names. Common names often arise from regional folklore, local languages, or characteristic features of the plant, making them accessible for everyday conversation. Utilizing a common name helps bridge the gap between horticultural professionals and the general audience, enabling effective communication regarding various plants.

In contrast, the other options refer to different concepts: "clone" pertains to genetically identical plants derived from a single parent, "cluster" describes a group of flowers or fruit that grow close together, and "caliper" is a term used to measure the diameter of a tree trunk at a specific height. Therefore, the term 'common name' is the most appropriate answer, aligning directly with the question about how the general public refers to plants.