What is a characteristic of gymnosperms?

Gymnosperms are characterized by producing seeds that are not enclosed in an ovary, which is a distinct feature that sets them apart from angiosperms, or flowering plants, that do possess enclosed seeds. The term "gymnosperm" itself translates to "naked seeds," which reflects this characteristic. Examples of gymnosperms include conifers like pine and spruce trees, where seeds are often found on the surface of cones rather than enclosed within a fruit.

The presence of vascular tissue, which is essential for the transport of water and nutrients, is a feature found in gymnosperms, so the option indicating "no vascular tissue" does not apply. While deciduous leaves can be found in some plant types, they are not exclusive to gymnosperms, as many angiosperms also exhibit deciduous characteristics. Lastly, the characteristic of enclosed seeds directly corresponds to angiosperms, reaffirming that gymnosperms, by definition, produce non-enclosed seeds. This fundamental trait plays a crucial role in understanding plant classification and evolution.