How Are Vascular & Non-Vascular Plants Similar?

Non-vascular moss in the foreground and vascular trees in the background.

Plants are usually divided into two categories: vascular and non-vascular. While these two types of plant have some different characteristics, such as having cells that transfer water from one part of the plant to another, they still share other characteristics common to all plants.

Food

Both vascular and non-vascular plants make their own food through photosynthesis. The plants have special cells called chlorophyll that absorb energy from the sun and make glucose.

Cell Wall

Both vascular and non-vascular plants have cell walls that protect the plant from damage and environmental stress.

Reproduction

Both vascular and non-vascular plants reproduce through sexual fertilization. Vascular plants produce seeds; non-vascular plants produce spores.

Waxy Cuticle

Both vascular and non-vascular plants have a waxy cuticle that serves the role of preventing the plant from drying out.

Structures

Non-vascular plants have no roots, stems, leaves or water conducting tissue. This limits their ability to to be as big as vascular plants.

References

• What Makes a Plant a Plant