Structures and Functions of Flowering Plants

Functions of Structures of Flowering Plants Defense Thorns –Sharp outgrowths from the stems of some plants –Keep the plant from being eaten Poisons –Chemical substances designed to keep animals from eating –Chemicals have foul- smell, sicken or kill –Some keep predators away until the plant has matured so that the fruit can be eaten and seeds dispersed

Parts of Flowering Plants that Function for Survival -Leaves -Stems -Roots

Leaves Function as the site for food production for plants. Photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration take place.

Stems Support the plant and hold the leaves up to the light. Transport water from the roots to the leaves and other plant parts. Transport food made in the leaves to growing parts of the plant. Function as food storage sites.

Roots Help anchor the plant in the ground. Absorb water and nutrients from the soil and store extra food. More root space that is available, the more water and nutrients it can absorb. Two root systems: fibrous and taproots

Fibrous Roots Consist of several main roots that branch off to form a mass of roots. Examples: grass, corn, and some trees

Taproots Consist of one large, main root with smaller roots branching off. Examples: carrots, dandelions, and cacti

Parts of Flowering Plants that Function in Reproduction Flowers Stamen Pistil Seeds

Flowers Produce seeds. Many contain both male and female parts needed to produce new flowers. Flower petals are often colorful or have a scent so as to attract insects and other animals.

Stamen Male part of the flower that has an anther on a stalk (filament). The anther produce the pollen.

Pistil Female part of the flower that holds the: –Ovary (contains the egg cells). –Stigma (sticky top where pollen grains land). –Style (stalk down which the pollen tube grows after pollination has taken place).

Seeds Fertilized ovules from which new plants are formed. A fruit that is formed from the ovary often protects them.