Cordaites

The cordaites were a group of plants thought by paleobotanists to be closely related to the conifers, based mainly on the structure of their cone-like reproductive organs. Unlike conifers, which have relatively small to very small leaves, the cordaites had large, thin and grass-like to wide and strap-like leaves, depending on the species. Cordaite trees in the coastal wetlands appear to have had relatively small stature. Their trunks may have had prop roots, much like modern mangroves, although it has not been proven unequivocally that these ancient plants could grow in salt water. Leaves may have been borne on tufts at the end of branches. In contrast, cordaites of very large size have been found in drier environments, outside of the wet areas where coal beds formed. In these cases, the cordaites may have been the dominant large trees of the forests. All pictures are looking up at the roof of the mine. (Click on image for a larger view.)