Question

Which gymnosperm is called a sago palm?

Answer 1

Gymnosperm are known to be a group of plants that produce seeds. Common gymnosperms include cycads, conifers and Ginkgo. The term gymnosperm is derived from the Greek word gymnos which means naked and perma which means seed. The seeds of gymnosperms develop either on the surface of leaves or scales and are sometimes modified into cones.

Complete answer:
Gymnosperms consist of six different phyla which are-pinophyta, cycadophyta, gnetophyta and ginkgophyta. Gymnosperms are similar to all vascular plants; they have a sporophyte dominant life cycle. They spend most of the life cycle as a gametophyte which comprises diploid cells and are short-lived. They consist of spores, megaspores and microscopes. Pollen grains develop from the microscope and form the sperm cells and megaspore remain within the ovary. Sago palm is a species of gymnosperm that belongs to the family Cycadaceae. Sago palm is not a typical palm although sometimes mistakenly it is thought to be a palm due to their similarity in features. They consist of green leaves and a trunk which is 20 cm in diameter. The leaves are glossy and can be 50-150 cm. Sago palm is one of the most widely found cycads that are grown outdoors in warm temperatures as well as subtropical regions. They can grow in cold conditions as well. Optimum growth takes place in well drained soil. In many parts of the world it is widely known as a commercial plant and also a quite popular bonsai plant.

Note-
Sago palm is of importance because the pith contains edible starch which is used for making sago. Sago is a major staple food for people residing in Moluccas and New Guinea.