Fossil plants are the preserved remains or traces of ancient vegetation that have been buried and mineralized over millions of years. These fossils can include leaves, stems, roots, and even pollen, providing valuable insights into the types of plants that existed in different geological periods. They help scientists understand past climates and ecosystems.
The study of fossil plants, known as paleobotany, allows researchers to reconstruct ancient environments and track the evolution of plant life. Fossilized plants can be found in sedimentary rocks, often in coal deposits, and are crucial for understanding the history of life on Earth and the development of modern flora.