Plants may reproduce asexually or sexually. In asexual reproduction, an entirely new plant arises that is genetically identical to the parent plant. In sexual reproduction, egg and sperm cells combine to form a new plant that is genetically distinct from the parent plants.

In asexual reproduction, different parts of the plant–stems, roots, leaves and spores–can give rise to new plants. In sexual reproduction, specialized structures have evolved to produce the reproductive cells. In angiosperms, the flowers contain the reproductive organs.

The male reproductive organ is the stamen and the female reproductive organ is the carpel. These organs may be found fully developed in the same flower, in different flowers on the same plant, or on different plants. The development of distinct male and female plants is one of the mechanisms that prevents self-pollination, ensuring genetic diversity.

Animals play an important role in the pollination of plants. The synergy between plants and animals in the pollination process is one of the best examples of coevolution.

Fertilization occurs after pollination. The sperm and egg fuse to form a zygote. The zygote develops into an embryo, which is the beginning of the new plant. The embryo is part of a seed and the seed is encased in a fruit. The fruit aids in the seed dispersal, and under the right conditions, the seed germinates and a new plant develops.

Plants have developed wonderfully diverse reproductive strategies. While we have focused on the reproductive details of flowering plants, the themes of adaptation and survival can be seen in all species of plants.

Copyright 2006 The Regents of the University of California and Monterey Institute for Technology and Education