evergreen
Definition
Evergreen is a term used to describe plants that have leaves that stay green and do not fall off the plant all year round. This is in contrast to deciduous plants, which lose their leaves in the fall and grow new ones in the spring.
There are many different types of evergreens, and they can be found in a wide variety of climates. Some evergreens, such as pines and firs, have needles that stay on the plant for several years. Other evergreens, such as junipers and hollies, have leaves that last for only one year.
Evergreens are important for many reasons. They provide food and shelter for wildlife, and they help to stabilise the soil. They are also popular Christmas trees.
The leaves of evergreens are adapted to living in cold climates. They have a waxy coating that helps to prevent water loss, and they often have a pointed shape that helps to shed snow.
Evergreens are also able to photosynthesise throughout the winter, even when there is no snow. This is because they have a special type of chlorophyll that is able to absorb light at lower wavelengths.
How can the word be used?
Pine trees, fir trees, and spruce trees are all evergreens.
Different forms of the word
Noun: evergreen, everbloomer.
Adjective: evergreen, evergreening.
Verb: to evergreen.
Synonyms: perennial, hardy, long-lived.
Antonyms: deciduous, annual.
Etymology
The word "evergreen" comes from the Old English word æfregrǣne, which means "ever green." It was first used in English in the 10th century, and it is still used today to refer to a plant that retains its leaves year-round.
Question
What is the difference between an evergreen and deciduous tree?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the adaptations and ecological advantages of evergreen plants in cold environments. Provide examples of evergreen species and how they thrive in such conditions.
Answer:
Evergreen plants exhibit unique adaptations that enable them to thrive in cold environments. One crucial adaptation is their ability to retain leaves throughout the year. Their needle-like or waxy leaves minimise water loss, conserving moisture in harsh conditions where water may be scarce or frozen. Additionally, evergreens have specialised photosynthetic pigments that allow them to photosynthesise even in low light and cold temperatures.
A prime example of an evergreen species is the coniferous tree, such as pine, spruce, and fir. These trees thrive in cold climates by adapting to the reduced daylight and lower temperatures of winter. Their needle-shaped leaves minimise water loss and the waxy coating further reduces moisture evaporation.
The ecological advantages of evergreens are notable. They provide year-round habitats for wildlife, serve as windbreaks, and stabilise soil, preventing erosion. Moreover, their ability to photosynthesise in winter enables them to start growing early in spring, gaining a competitive advantage over deciduous plants in colder regions.