This publication will help you answer questions about tree growth and this understanding may, in turn, help with decisions about cultural and management practices. Understanding and promoting good tree growth means a healthier urban forest. Tree growth is the increase in size and number of leaves, stems, and roots. Trees are seed plants - that is they reproduce by seed. They are classified into gymnosperms and angiosperms.
Gymnosperms are trees with seeds that develop on the surface or tip of an appendage such as a cone.
Examples are cypress and pines. Examples are oaks, elms, maples, and palms. This bulletin describes growth of both gymnosperms and angiosperms. Also, there's one more division among angiosperms that is necessary. Palms are angiosperms but they are different than oaks, maples, and elms, which are dicots, because palms are monocots and are related to grasses.