ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF GYMNOSPERMS
Gymnosperm are the small group of plants. There are 13 genera and 7000 species in subdivision gymnosperm.
- AS FOOd
- Seeds of some species are edible.
- Stem of cycas revoluta good source of sago starch.
- Zamia is a rich source of starch.
- Seed and stem of cycas revoluta used for making wine.
- AS MEDICINE
- Leaves of cycas circinalis, Taxus are used as medicine.
- Pollen grains of some cycas have narcotic effect.
- Oil of jenifers is important.
- Ephedrine derived from Ephedra used for treatment of cold cough.
- Anti cancerous drug called taxol, obtained from the bark of taxus.
- AS ORNAMENTAL
- Species of cycas are used for decoration purposes.
- Ginkgo bioloba, possess beautiful ornamental leaves.
- Pinus ,Taxus etc are grown in parks.
- IN INDUSTRY
- Spruce and Picea is an important source of pulp wood.
- Wood of Juniperus is used for making pencils,Scales and holders.
- Bark of larix yeilds a tannin.
- Terpenite is obtained from Abies balsamea.
- Wood of red spruce especially important for music industry.
