Difference Between Broad Leafed Plants Vs. Grasses

Leaves and Leaf Veins

• The leaves of grasses are relatively long and narrow, with veins that run parallel along the leaf. Broadleaved plants generally have leaves that are relatively wide in comparison to grass leaves. In broadleaved plants, leaf veins may either be netted, with large veins branching from major ribs and dividing into smaller veins distributed throughout the leaf or, like grass leaves, have a parallel arrangement.

Stems

• The stems of grasses are usually round and hollow except at the nodes, where leaves attach to the stem. The nodes, or joints, tend to visibly bulge. The stems of broadleaved specimens may appear round or square in cross-section. Sedges, not technically grasses or broadleaved plants, have stems that appear triangular in cross-section.

Flowers

• In general, the flowers of grasses are relatively small and inconspicuous when compared to the flowers of broadleaved plants. The flowers of broadleaved plants are typically more conspicuous than grass flowers and are frequently colorful and fragrant. Grass pollen spreads via wind rather than using insect pollinators that are drawn to bright or fragrant blooms. Flower heads of grasses are classified as spike, raceme or panicle flower heads, depending on the arrangement of spikelets, which each contain one or more flowers that are technically called florets.

Roots and Other Characteristics

• Grasses have fibrous root systems. Broadleaved plants can also have a fibrous root system. However, some broadleaved plants may have a large primary taproot with small lateral roots emerging from it or a root system that is a combination of both. Where grass leaves meet the stem, there is a collar that consists of the leaf blade and sheath as well as a ligule and auricle. The characteristics of these parts vary between species, making them very useful for identifying grasses, particularly before bloom. The leaves of broadleaved plants are either attached directly to the stem or attached to the stem on a leaf stalk or stem known as a petiole.