Conifers

Conifers are trees that encompasses the Pinophyta division of plant life, which is also called Coniferae. Within this division are plants of varying sizes. They all share a common aspect of being woody plants. Some are shrubs while others grow to be trees of great heights - indeed the tallest trees on earth, the Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is a conifer. All are vascular plants, that is to say, they have lignified tissues for conducting water. The leaves of coniferous plants are usually pointed and needle like. Often the needles are scaly.

All conifers are wind pollinated. Some produce woody cone. These cones encases seeds. When mature, the scales of the cones spread open to let the seeds fall out.

Conifers make a great ornamental plants for the garden. Depending on the size of your garden, choose a conifer that will blend in rather than overwhelm the landscape. When planting conifers, attention should be paid to the tree's eventual size and spread. There are plenty of miniature pines that will work well for small gardens. Some can even be included as border plants.

Conifers

 Index of 690 Plants in The Flowering Garden