Which description accurately defines a grass?

Which description accurately defines a grass?

• A. A primitive perennial that reproduces by creeping roots and tubers.
• B. Flat or round, with hollow stems.
• C. Triangular with solid stems.
• D. Aerial plant with no leaves.

Answer: (B)

Grasses are typically identified by their culms that are flat or round and hollow between the joints. This hollow stem is a common, distinguishing feature you can rely on in the field. The other descriptions don’t match the usual grass form: a plant described as having creeping roots and tubers fits some perennials but not the classic grass stem; a triangular, solid stem points to sedges rather than grasses; and an aerial plant with no leaves isn’t a grass at all. So the hollow, either flat or round stem best defines a grass.

Grasses are typically identified by their culms that are flat or round and hollow between the joints. This hollow stem is a common, distinguishing feature you can rely on in the field. The other descriptions don’t match the usual grass form: a plant described as having creeping roots and tubers fits some perennials but not the classic grass stem; a triangular, solid stem points to sedges rather than grasses; and an aerial plant with no leaves isn’t a grass at all. So the hollow, either flat or round stem best defines a grass.