What do you call plants that have a single cotyledon?

Plants that have a single cotyledon are referred to as monocots. The term "monocot" comes from the prefix "mono," meaning one, and "cotyledon," which is the first leaf or leaves that sprout from a seed. Monocots typically exhibit certain characteristics that set them apart from other plant groups, particularly dicots, which have two cotyledons. Common features of monocots include parallel leaf venation, flower parts usually in multiples of three, and a fibrous root system.

Understanding the classification of plants based on cotyledon number is crucial in botany as it helps in identifying plant species and understanding their growth patterns and structures. Monocots include important agricultural crops, such as grasses, lilies, and orchids, as well as ornamental plants. This classification is fundamentally important in both horticulture and agriculture, guiding practices such as planting and crop management.