Angiosperms: An overview

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the flowering plants or angiosperms. The unique features of angiosperms are described, and based on these features, the evolutionary and phylogenetic history of angiosperm is traced. The chapter also gives details on distribution, phytogeography, growth habit, life form classes, root and shoot systems, leaves, infl orescence, fl ower and reproductive biology. An account is also provided on the details of genetic diversity and species diversity found in angiosperms. Emphasis is laid on the recent APG system of classification. Plant genomes, model plants and a brief information on economic importance are also given.