What are monocarpic and polycarpic plants?

Hint: Monocarpic and polycarpic are the types of flowering plants. They both differ in the time of flowering and have different life cycles. After the flowering cycle is complete, the plant undergoes senescence.

Complete Answer:
There are two types of flowering plants divided according to the number of flowering times. They are-
1) Monocarpic plants: The term was first used by Alphonse de Candolle. These are the plants which flowers and seeds once in a lifetime. Monocarpic plants die after the flowering and fruiting is over. They are generally biennial. Very few of them are perennial.
- The plants can live many years before they flower. Flowering in these plants generates the signal for senescence which causes internal changes in plants and leads to death. These signals are triggered by certain hormones.
- Some of the monocarpic plants can be kept alive for long by removing the flowers as soon as they bloom before forming into seeds. If the flower buds are removed before blooming, they can survive for longer periods. Example- Wheat, maize.

2) Polycarpic plants: A plant is said to be polycarpic if it is able to flower more than once before dying. These plants are able to reproduce multiple times or every year due to the presence of meristem tissues. They are sexually active throughout their lifetime. These plants are perennial plants. Example: mango, grapes, apple.

Note: Polycarpic plants undergo reproduction in extreme conditions. This feature helps them against competition and helps them to adapt to the extreme environment.