| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Nature of Plants | Mostly evergreen, perennial, and woody plants with unbranched stems and a crown of leaves. |
| Reproductive Structures | Male and female reproductive structures are borne on separate sporophylls of the same plant. Reproductive structures are unisexual. |
| Seed Features | Seeds are exposed and lack a natural covering; hence, no fruits are formed (gymnos = naked, sperms = seeds). |
| Examples |
|
| Preferred Environment | Found in temperate and cold climates, including forests and mountainous regions. |
| Pollination and Fertilization | Wind-based pollination: seeds form after fertilisation, but fruits do not develop. |
| Role in Ecosystems | Contribute to oxygen production, provide habitats, and prevent soil erosion. |
| Economic Value | Source of timber, resin, and medicinal compounds. |
| Historical Significance | Ancient plant group that evolved before angiosperms, showcasing early adaptations in plant evolution. |
Gymnosperms
