Gymnosperms, meaning "naked seeds," are a group of plants that produce seeds without enclosing them in a protective fruit. They are commonly referred to as conifers because they include trees such as pines, spruces, firs, and cedars. Some synonyms for gymnosperms include non-flowering plants, evergreens, needle-leaved trees, and cone-bearing trees. This group of plants is important for their wood, as well as for their ecological value in providing habitat for wildlife. Additionally, some gymnosperms, such as the ginkgo tree, are valued for their medicinal properties and ornamental value in landscapes. Gymnosperms play an important role in the natural world and offer a range of benefits to our ecosystem and society.