How are evergreen plants with woody stems having naked seed classified ?

Gymnosperms are classified as vascular plants that produce 'naked seeds,' a term derived from the Greek words 'gymnos' (naked) and 'sperma' (seed) [1]. Unlike angiosperms, their seeds are not enclosed within an ovary or fruit but are instead exposed on the surfaces of reproductive structures like cone scales [1]. These plants are typically perennial, woody, and evergreen, often possessing needle-like or scale-like leaves. Common examples include conifers such as pine, spruce, and fir. While angiosperms produce flowers and fruits to protect their seeds, gymnosperms rely on cones for reproduction and are generally characterized by their large size and significant secondary growth [1]. In contrast, pteridophytes are seedless vascular plants that reproduce via spores, and monocotyledons are a specific subgroup of angiosperms with seeds enclosed in fruits [1].

Sources

1. [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 9: Indian Biodiversity Diverse Landscape > 7. Gymnosperms > p. 157