Facts About Flowering Plants

Overview

Ninety percent of the plant kingdom comprises flowering plants (termed angiosperms) of which many tropical species are yet unnamed. Flowering plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes and have been adapted to nearly every habitat on the earth. They have been the focus of botanical studies for years.

History

It has been suggested that flowering plants first appeared upon the earth about 130 million years ago. Research is still being conducted today to determine the actual emergence of the first flowers.

Types

Flowering plants are classified into three basic groups: annuals, biennials and perennials.

Parts

A flowering plant consists of four major parts: flowers, leaves, stems and roots. Each part has a specific function.

Botanical Fact

One flowering plant could have two or three names---the scientific name (given by the botanist that discovered it) and two or three common or vernacular names.

Reproduction Fact

Flowering plants must be pollinated in order to produce seeds. Pollination can take place within the same plant (self-pollination) or may be accomplished with two different plants (cross-pollination).

Ecological Benefits

Flowering plants contribute greatly to the world's supply of oxygen. They also convert light energy into chemical energy and make an excellent food source for animals as well as humans.

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