Gymnosperms and Angiosperms: Characteristics of Gymnosperms

Gymnosperms, first appearing 300 million years ago, were dominant during the dinosaur age. Today, they form large forests in the northern hemisphere. Gymnosperms are nonflowering plants with seeds not enclosed in structures, often developing in cones. They have true roots, stems, and leaves, with some species having needle-like leaves. The pine tree, a common gymnosperm, has a life cycle with alternating sporophyte and gametophyte phases. Pine trees produce male and female cones, with pollination leading to fertilization and seed development. The complete life cycle takes two to three years.

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