Monocots, or monocotyledons, are a group of flowering plants characterized by having a single seed leaf, or cotyledon. They typically have parallel leaf veins, flower parts in multiples of three, and a fibrous root system. Common examples of monocots include grasses, lilies, and orchids. These plants are important for agriculture and ecosystems, providing food, habitat, and resources. Many staple crops, such as rice, wheat, and corn, belong to the monocot group. Their unique features distinguish them from dicots, which have two seed leaves and different leaf and flower structures.