Systems for Classifying PlantsFrom the tiny
duckweed, just 1/6 inch across, floating in a pond...
to the venerable Sequoia, over 350 feet tall, towering in
the ancient forest...
From the juniper, gnarled and stunted by the relentless
wind on an alpine ridge...
to the verdant carpet of moss, cushioning the rocks in a
woodland glen...
to the saguaro cactus, sentinel of the barren desert...
the family of plants includes an almost incomprehensible
array of organisms. Plants have evolved diverse forms, sizes, and adaptations in response
to their particular needs and the environment in which they live. This variety and
diversity has allowed plants to colonize every corner of the earth, from ocean to desert
to tundra.
In Weeks 1 and 2 we looked at plant parts and functions,
and examined the internal workings of plants on a cellular level. This week we’ll
take a step back and look at the family of plants as a whole. We’ll discuss the
amazing diversity among members—then explore how people throughout history have
attempted to create order by organizing and classifying plants according to various
features. We’ll survey the various groupings within the plant kingdom and note
similarities and differences among groups. Finally, we’ll take a closer look at some
plant families of special interest to gardeners.
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