What Are Gymnosperms?

Gymnosperms belong to a relatively small group of seed-producing plants that include pines, spruces, firs and hemlocks.  The seeds of most gymnosperm species are borne in cones, rather than in ovaries.  The hardened scales of the cones enclose the seeds.  If you shake a ripe pinecone, the seeds will tumble out from their woody scales.

The yews (genus: Taxus) are one exception within the gymnosperm group.  Their seeds, encased in a fleshy covering, are produced individually in the axils of ordinary leaves.

Many, but not all, of these species are woody, everygreen trees or shrubs, with needle-like leaves.

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