W5 - Ferns, conifers, cycads, CUPRESSACEAE Flashcards
What are the three main groups of non-flowering plants?
Ferns, Cycads, Conifers
These groups are characterized by their reproductive methods and physical traits.
What is the primary method of reproduction for ferns?
Spores
Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce via spores instead of seeds.
What are the leaves of ferns called?
Fronds
New growth is referred to as ‘fiddleheads’ or ‘croziers’.
What type of environment do ferns generally prefer?
Shaded, damp environments
What structures do spores form in on ferns?
Sporangia
These structures are located on the backs of fertile fronds.
What is the family name of Adiantum spp. (Maidenhair Fern)?
PTERIDACEAE
What characteristic features are typical of Adiantum spp.?
Slender black stipes and delicate rhomboid pinnules
What is the growth height of most Maidenhair ferns?
Under 300mm tall
What type of fern is Asplenium australasicum?
Epiphytic fern
This fern can grow over 1m long and is more tolerant of drought than Maidenhair ferns.
Grows upon another plant but is not nourished by it
What family does Cyathea australis belong to?
CYATHEACEAE
What is a notable feature of Cyathea cooperi?
Slender trunk marked with oval leaf scars
What is the cold tolerance of Dicksonia antarctica?
Most cold-tolerant of the tree ferns
What type of plant is Cycas revoluta commonly referred to as?
Japanese Sago Palm
Despite its name, it is actually a gymnosperm.
What family does Cycas revoluta belong to?
CYCADACEAE
What is a key feature of conifers?
Reproduce via structures called strobili that develop into cones
What is the family name of Chamaecyparis obtusa?
CUPRESSACEAE
What is a notable characteristic of Chamaecyparis obtusa?
Foliage in flattened sprays with distinctive X and Y markings on underside
What is the growth rate of X Cupressocyparis leylandii when young?
1m per year
Fill in the blank: Most conifers are native to ______ climates.
cold
True or False: Conifers generally tolerate hard pruning.
False
They generally don’t tolerate hard pruning beyond leafy growth.
What is a common use of Leyland Cypress?
Windbreaks, hedges, and mazes
What should be done to maintain Leyland Cypress for formal hedges?
Regular pruning (monthly)
What is a disadvantage of Leyland Cypress in landscaping?
Can cause neighbor disputes due to height, shade, and vigorous roots
