How would you differentiate between the roots of monocot and dicot plants?

Answer 1

The roots of most dicots originate from the radicle. They appear in an X shape - with the xylem in the centre, and phloem in the gaps.

By contrast, the radicle of monocots aborts, and the roots appear to originate almost at random from nodes in the stem. The phloem and xylem alternate - forming a circle.

Answer 2

Monocot plants have roots that are fibrous and spread out in different directions from the base of the stem, while dicot plants have a taproot system with one main root that grows deep into the soil and smaller lateral roots branching off from it. Monocot roots lack the distinct central root found in dicot plants.