monocotyledon (monocot)

Introduction

one of two major groups of flowering plants (angiosperms) that are traditionally recognized, the other being dicotyledons or dicots. Monocot seedlings typically have one cotyledon (seed-leaf), in contrast to the two cotyledons typical of dicots.

Monocots comprise the majority of biomass produced in agriculture. There are 50,000-60,000 species within this group. The largest family in this group are the orchids (family Orchidaceae), with about 20,000 species. The economically most important family are the true grasses, family Poaceae (Gramineae). Other economically important monocot families are the palm family (Arecaceae), banana family (Musaceae), ginger family (Zingiberaceae) & the onion family Alliaceae, which includes onions & garlic.

Many monocots are cultivated for their flowers, notably lilies, daffodils, irises, amaryllis, orchids, cannas, bluebells & tulips.

More general terms

• plant

More specific terms

• graminoid (grasses)