Monocots

Definition

Monocots are a group of angiosperms characterized by having one seed leaf, or cotyledon. They typically exhibit parallel leaf venation and flower parts in multiples of three.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Monocots have one cotyledon in their seeds.
2. They generally display parallel venation in their leaves.
3. The floral organs of monocots usually appear in multiples of three.
4. Common examples of monocots include grasses, lilies, and orchids.
5. Monocot stems often have scattered vascular bundles.

Review Questions

• What is the number of cotyledons found in monocot seeds?
• How do the leaf veins generally arrange themselves in monocots?
• In what multiples do the floral parts of monocots usually appear?

Related terms

Dicots: Angiosperms with two seed leaves, or cotyledons, often displaying net-like venation and floral organs in multiples of four or five.

Cotyledon: The first leaf or pair of leaves produced by the embryo of a seed plant.

Vascular Bundles: Part of the transport system in vascular plants, forming strands that include xylem and phloem tissues.