In the world of floristry, ethereal flowers always steal the spotlight. Their vibrance brings joy, their delicate petals speak of fragility and their wholesomeness echoes life’s most beautiful emotions. But there is another realm that is often missed out on when you think of nature’s finest offerings: Non-flowering plants.
They are found in various forms and shapes. Some produce spores, some produce seeds and more such. But each one of them is truly vital in its own way. So even though these plants lack the hues, charm and allure of freshly blossomed flowers they make up for it by playing an integral role in shaping the ecosystem. These greens deserve all the love and more.
Let’s get to know more about them.
Moss
With over 12000 occurring species known to man, moss is an intricate beauty like no other. It lacks roots, stems, and leaves, yet plays a crucial role in soil erosion prevention, microclimate creation and also makes for the perfect indicator of environmental health. All in all, it’s a visual spectacle that weaves a story of adaptability and ecological significance.
Algae
The king of aquatic environments, algae is a term for a diverse group of photosynthetic, eukaryotic organisms. Mostly found in freshwater, seawater or moist soil, they grow up to 200 ft and help the waters in myriad ways – Oxygen production and nutrient cycling to name a few, along with serving as a food base for almost all life underwater. In other words, it’s a microscopic powerhouse that ensures a seamless function of aquatic life, making it thrive each day.
Read more about plants here.
Ferns
Found in diverse places, from deserts to rainforests, bubbling streams to even your backyard, these fine ferns are a more advanced group of non-flowering plants. They reproduce through spores and not seeds and their lifecycle is just as unique as them. They’re truly a marvel worth appreciating as they create a healthy habitat for the smaller creatures of the environment like amphibians and insects. Their firm roots also help in binding the soil together, so that during a harsh downpour, the soil stays unaffected.
Liverworts
Look at barks of trees, moist ponds and damp forests and you’re sure to find Liverworts thriving there. These unassuming yet resilient natural wonders are known as the pioneers of green minimalism. They’re truly different from flowering plants as they feature a thallus and a flat, ribbon-like body, which can be lobed or unlobed. Like other non-flowering plants, these too play a role in microhabitat creation and soil stabilization but also, its fresh or dried parts that grow above the ground are widely used around the globe to make medicines.
Lycophytes
Also known as ‘fern allies’, Lycophytes are vascular plants that are similar to ferns but have unique leaves called microphylls. These leaves contribute to the overall charm and identity of this non-flowering plant. They lack seeds, wood, and fruits too. Some of its species display extreme drought tolerance and some act as pioneer species in ecological succession, which means they are among the first few plants to colonize dry or barren areas to pave the way for more plant communities.
Make a sustainable choice and order plant gifts now for your loved ones.