Flowering plants are also known by their plant group name anthophyta or angiosperm. This group of plants is split into two groups called monocots and dicots. The flowering plant is defined by a cluster of leaves involved in reproduction and by the seed which is contained in an ovary or fruit.

History

The majority of plants are thought to have evolved over 400 million years, but the flowering plant group has evolved over just 100 million years to outnumber all other plant groups combined.

Diversity

The flowering plant family contains a large, diverse group of plants that can be just a few millimeters in size to large trees reaching many feet. This group of plants has also developed to cover extremes of heat like the cacti and cold such as the alpines.

Monocots

Members of the monocot class of flowering plant include grasses, palms, corn and orchids. The monocot is so called as it produces only one seed leaf or cotyledon which stores food for seedlings.

Dicots

The dicot class of flowering plant produces two cotyledons and includes plants such as apple trees, sunflowers and cacti.

Food

The anthophyta group of plants produces the majority of food produced throughout the world. The family contains fruits, nuts, beans, vegetables, herbs and spices. Drinks such as tea, coffee, wine and beer are also produced using flowering plants.

Clothing

Extracts from flowering plants are often used to produce commercial dyes for use in textile manufacturing. The fibers of flowering plants are also used to produce materials including cotton and linen.

Source:

Introduction To Anthophyta

Anthophyta: Evolution & Diversity

The Flowering Plants