upgrade

🔬general biology i review

Endospermic dicots

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Endospermic dicots are a type of dicotyledonous plant where the seeds retain some endosperm at maturity. This endosperm provides nutrients to the developing embryo within the seed.

Pep mascot

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Endospermic dicots have two cotyledons in their seeds.
  2. The endosperm in these seeds is not completely absorbed by the cotyledons during seed development.
  3. Examples of endospermic dicots include castor bean and coffee.
  4. The presence of endosperm distinguishes them from non-endospermic (exalbuminous) dicots, which fully absorb the endosperm into their cotyledons.
  5. The retained endosperm in these seeds serves as an additional nutrient source for the seedling upon germination.

Review Questions