Monocots, short for monocotyledons, are a class of flowering plants characterized by having a single seed leaf, called a cotyledon, within their seeds. They are one of the two major groups of angiosperms, also known as flowering plants, the other being dicots.
In a monocot plant, the seedling emerges from the seed with a single leaf, which usually remains at ground level. This leaf is typically long and narrow, with parallel veins running along its length. Monocots often possess fibrous root systems, with a multitude of fine roots originating from the stem base. The stem itself is usually herbaceous rather than woody, lacking a cambium that would allow for secondary growth.
Monocots showcase a range of floral structures, featuring flowers that typically have multiples of three petals, sepals, stamens, or other reproductive parts. Some well-known monocot plants include grasses, lilies, orchids, and palms.
Overall, monocots are a diverse group, encompassing around 60,000 to 70,000 species, which constitute a significant portion of the Earth's plant diversity. They play essential roles in various ecosystems, serving as a significant food source for humans and animals. Monocots also contribute to the landscapes through their aesthetic appeal in gardens and parks, and provide numerous ecological services such as soil stabilization and erosion control.
