Question

What is the classification of plants?

Answer 1

Plants:

1. These are a group of multicellular organisms that do not move from place to place and are fixed in a particular geographical area.
2. There is a variety of plant species available on the planet.

I) Based on the height to which they can grow they are divided into herbs, shrubs, trees, climbers, and creepers.

1. Herbs: Herbs are little plants with soft, green, delicate stems that are free of woody tissue and usually live for one or two seasons. For example, tomato.
2. Shrubs: These plants are slightly larger than the herbs, possess a woody stem, and are branched. For example, rose.
3. Trees: Trees are massive tall plants with thick woody and stiff stems bearing leaves, fruits, and flowers. For example, coconut tree.
4. Climbers: Climbers have a very thin, long, and fragile stem that makes it impossible for them to stand straight, yet they can grow vertically and hold their weight with the help of external support. For example, green peas.
5. Creepers: These are very fragile, long, thin stems that can neither stand erect nor support all their weight. Example: watermelon.

II) Based on the life cycle of plants, they are divided into annuals, biennials, and perennials.

1. Annuals: Plants that complete their life cycle in a single season are called annuals. For example, rice.
2. Biennials: These plants require two years for their life cycle to complete. For example, carrot.
3. Perennials: These plants live for a longer duration of time usually varying from 3 years and above. For example Banyan tree.

III) Based on their physical characteristics, plants are divided into evergreen, woody, and deciduous plants.

1. Evergreen plants: Plants that do not lose their leaves during warm climates and appear green throughout the year. For example, Jack spine.
2. Woody plants: Plants with rigid stems and buds that survive above ground in the winter are known as woody plants. For example, maple trees.
3. Deciduous plants: These plants shred their leaves during the winter season and hence are called deciduous plants. For example, oak trees.

IV) Based on the reproductive mode of plants, they are classified as phanerogams and cryptograms.

1. Phanerogams: Plants that produce flowers and seeds for reproduction are called phanerogams, for example, corn.
2. Cryptograms: Plants that reproduced without growing flowers and seeds, and produce spores are called cryptograms, for example, algae.