Monocarpic

Monocarpic plants are those that flower, set seeds and then die. The term is derived from the Greek words mono meaning "one" and karpos meaning "fruit". Monocarpic plants contrast with polycarpic plants, which can flower and set seeds many times during their lifetime.

Characteristics

Monocarpic plants may live for many years before they flower. The length of time before flowering occurs depends on the species of plant and environmental conditions. Once a monocarpic plant has flowered and set seed, it will die. This is because the plant puts all of its energy into producing a large and often spectacular flower and seed set, leaving no resources for further growth or survival.

Examples

Examples of monocarpic plants include many bamboo species, Agave americana (also known as the century plant), and the titan arum (Amorphophallus titanum). Some monocarpic plants, such as certain bamboos, have a very long life cycle and may only flower once every several decades.

Ecological significance

Monocarpic plants play an important role in their ecosystems. Their large and often spectacular flowering events can provide a significant source of food for pollinators and seed predators. The death of the plant after flowering can also create gaps in the vegetation, allowing for the regeneration of other plant species.

See also

• Semelparity and iteroparity
• Annual plant
• Biennial plant
• Perennial plant

References

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