Plants
All plants, including trees, vines, shrubs and herbs, have cell walls that are partially composed of cellulose. Newly-added to this collection are images from the Smithsonian's Department of Botany.
Aquatic PlantsThis folder highlights plant species that live in aquatic environments, using water for physical support and/or to produce food. Desert PlantsShort grasses, sagebrush, creosote bushes, and cacti are just a few of the many plants that can be found in the desert. FernsFerns are non-flowering, spore-producing plants, most commonly found in moist habitats. GrassesThis colorful collection presents tropical and temperate grasses. GymnospermsThe related group "gymnosperms" includes pine trees and other types of conifers, cycads, and ginkgos. Note the variety of shapes these plants exhibit. Herbs"Herbs" does not refer to a related group of plants, but rather to a common body shape – low to the ground and not woody. |
Mosses & WortsWithout a vascular system to carry water within their tissues, mosses and worts stay small and low to the ground. PalmsAlthough a few other plants (e.g., cycads) are sometimes called palms, true palms are shrubs, vines, or trees within a single plant family and are known for having a single stem and fan-shaped leaves. ShrubsShrubs (also known as bushes) usually have multiple woody stems, and maintain a low height. TreesTrees encompass a diverse range of woody plants that grow a tall, single stem before branching out and leafing. VinesVines are plants with flexible stems that can grow up other plants, on structures, or outwards across the ground, helping ensure better exposure to light and access to new areas for colonization. Plant StructuresThe different forms and functions of plant tissues can be seen in these detailed images of blossoms, fruits, stems, seeds, leaves, roots, and more. |