Dikotyledone

Dikotyledone, commonly known as dicotyledons or dicots, is an informal name for a large group of flowering plants whose seeds typically contain two embryonic leaves, or cotyledons. Historically they were contrasted with monocotyledons (monocots). In modern taxonomy, dicotyledones are not recognized as a single, natural clade; most of what used to be called dicots belongs to the clade eudicots, while several early-diverging lineages are referred to as basal or paleodicots.

Key features commonly associated with dikotyledone include leaves with net-like venation, vascular bundles arranged in a ring within the stem, and often a taproot system. Floral structures are frequently in multiples of five, though there are numerous exceptions. Pollen grains in many dicots are tricolpate (having three grooves), but this is not universal across all lineages.

Dikotyledone comprise a broad diversity of species, from herbaceous plants to large trees and shrubs. They include many economically important groups such as legumes (peas, beans), sunflowers, asters, roses, maples, and oaks. They inhabit a wide range of habitats and climates worldwide.

Evolution and classification: because dicotyledones are not a monophyletic group in modern phylogenetics, the term is mainly encountered in historical or educational contexts. The modern framework emphasizes eudicots as the major clade within what was once called dicots, with basal angiosperm lineages representing early-branching relatives.

See also: Monocots, Eudicots, Angiosperms.