Evolution Evolved from fern-like ancestors. Progressively more dominant sporophyte. In the gymnosperms and the flowering plants, the sporophyte generation is dominant with the gametophyte contained in and dependent on the sporophyte. They do have a well-developed vascular system of xylem and phloem and have true roots, stems, and leaves. The vascular tissues are significantly more efficient and effective than the vascular systems of the seedless plants such as the ferns.
Gymnosperms are usually woody plants.
The formation of wood from secondary growth is the reason that some sporophytes can reach such large sizes. Staminate cones are the male cones and the ovulate cones are female. Conifers demonstrate remarkable adaptations to harsh climates where little liquid water is available for much of the year. For example, most conifers have tough, narrow leaves called needles that are adapted in several ways to conserve water. Conifers also have resins which act to protect the plant from predation.