Characteristic features of Dicotyledons and Monocotyledons

Dicotyledons and Monocotyledons differ consistently across both their external (morphological) and internal (anatomical) features.

Dicotyledons — morphological features: reticulate (net-like) venation in the leaves; two cotyledons present in the seed; the primary root (radicle) persists and develops into a tap root system; flowers are typically tetramerous or pentamerous (parts in fours or fives); pollen is tricolpate (three furrows/grooves). Anatomical features: vascular bundles in the stem are arranged in a ring; the bundles are open (cambium present, allowing further growth); secondary growth is present.

Monocotyledons — morphological features: parallel venation in the leaves; a single cotyledon present in the seed; the radicle does not persist, and a fibrous root system develops instead; flowers are typically trimerous (parts in threes); pollen is monocolpate (a single furrow). Anatomical features: vascular bundles in the stem are scattered rather than ringed; the bundles are closed (no cambium); secondary growth is absent. …