Kingdom: Plantae

 

Phylum: Magnoliophyta

 

Genus: Euonymus L.

 

Energy: The leaves from the Winged Euonymus obtain their energy from photosynthesis, the energy is then distributed throughout the plant.  This plant also depends on the soil for energy by extracting water and certain nutrients from the soil.  The stem then transports these nutrients throughout to help with the growth of the plant.

 

The embryos in the berries of the Winged Euonymus obtain energy in a very different way.  The seed inside the berry contains the embryo which is surrounded by food and a protective shell.  The embryo is able to then grow faster because it has its own supply of food and doesn't have to compete with the mother plant.

 

Reproduction: In the summer the Winged Euonymus forms white flowers which in the fall are replaced by red berries that fall to the ground and spread their seeds.  The actual berries are produced from the sperm, which is a pollen grain, and the egg, which is an ovule.  The union of the egg and sperm create a sporophyte.  Also the plant does not only disperse itself by its berries dropping to the ground, birds will also transport these seeds to other areas.  These are some of the reasons why this plant travels and spreads so quickly not only by itself, but with natures help.