Nonconifer

Nonconifer refers to plant species that are not conifers. The term is informal and commonly used in forestry, ecology, and horticulture to distinguish non-coniferous flora from coniferous trees. The nonconifer group includes two major components: angiosperms (flowering plants) such as oaks, maples, and many tropical hardwoods; and other gymnosperms that are not conifers, including ginkgo, cycads, and the gnetophytes (Ephedra, Welwitschia, Gnetum). It is not a formal taxonomic group but a practical label reflecting major differences in leaves, reproduction, and commercial uses.

Conifers are typically evergreen gymnosperms with needle-like or scale-like leaves and cones. Nonconifers display greater diversity in habit and leaves; they can be deciduous or evergreen, with broad or narrowly shaped leaves. Reproduction varies: angiosperms produce flowers and seeds within fruits; non-conifer gymnosperms bear different cone-like reproductive structures, but are not conifers.

The nonconifer category includes many ecologically and economically important plants, such as broadleaf hardwoods used for timber and a wide range of ornamentals, as well as several non-conifer gymnosperms like Ginkgo biloba and cycads.

See also: Conifer, Gymnosperm, Angiosperm.