Which group of plants is exclusively arborescent (woody) ?

Options

A. Pteridophyta
B. Dicots
C. Gymnosperms
D. Monocots

Answer

To determine which group of plants is exclusively arborescent (woody), we can analyze each of the provided options step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the term "arborescent":**
- Arborescent refers to plants that have a woody structure, typically characterized by a trunk and branches, resembling a tree.

2. **Evaluate Option A: Pteridophyta**
- Pteridophyta includes ferns and other seedless vascular plants.
- These plants do not have a woody structure; they are primarily herbaceous (non-woody).
- **Conclusion:** This option is not correct.

3. **Evaluate Option B: Dicots**
- Dicots are a group of flowering plants (angiosperms) that typically have two seed leaves or cotyledons.
- While some dicots can be woody (like oaks and maples), not all dicots are exclusively arborescent.
- **Conclusion:** This option is not correct.

4. **Evaluate Option C: Gymnosperms**
- Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that include conifers, cycads, and ginkgo.
- They are predominantly woody plants and include many of the tallest and largest trees (e.g., pines, spruces).
- Gymnosperms are characterized by having naked seeds and are primarily perennial.
- **Conclusion:** This option is correct as they are exclusively arborescent.

5. **Evaluate Option D: Monocots**
- Monocots are another group of flowering plants that typically have one seed leaf.
- Examples include grasses, lilies, and orchids. Most monocots are herbaceous and do not have a woody structure.
- **Conclusion:** This option is not correct.

### Final Answer:
The group of plants that is exclusively arborescent (woody) is **C: Gymnosperms**.