Which statement is true about monocots?

• A. One cotyledon
• B. Flower parts in fours or fives
• C. Taproot system
• D. Woody plants like oaks

Answer: (A)

Monocots are defined by having one cotyledon in the seed—the embryonic leaf that appears as the seed germinates. That single seed leaf is a hallmark used to separate monocots from dicots, which have two cotyledons.

Understanding why this matters helps: the other statements describe features more typical of dicots. Flower parts in fours or fives are common in dicots, while monocots usually have flower parts in threes. Monocots also tend to have a fibrous root system rather than a single main taproot. Many monocots are herbaceous, and true wood is uncommon (though some exceptions like palm relatives exist), whereas oaks are classic woody dicots. Leaves of monocots typically show parallel veins, contrasting with the net-like venation common in many dicots.

So, the statement that monocots have one cotyledon is the true distinguishing trait.