What classification is given to cone-bearing plants?

Cone-bearing plants are classified as coniferous. This classification is specifically associated with the group of trees and shrubs that reproduce via cones and are characterized by needle-like leaves. Coniferous plants are typically part of a larger group known as Gymnosperms, which are distinguished by their seed production in cones rather than flowers or fruits, making them different from angiosperms, which produce flowers and fruit.

While evergreen plants are characterized by retaining their leaves throughout the year, not all coniferous trees are evergreen; some may shed their leaves seasonally. Deciduous plants are known for shedding their leaves annually, which again distinguishes them from coniferous plants that generally maintain their foliage. Thus, coniferous is the most accurate classification for cone-bearing plants, emphasizing their unique reproductive structures and ecological characteristics.