Name the category of weeds described as narrow, upright leaves with parallel veins; round stems.

• A. Grasses
• B. Broadleaf weeds
• C. Sedges
• D. Forbs

Answer: (A)

Identifying grasses hinges on leaf venation and stem shape. Narrow, upright leaves with parallel veins are a hallmark of grasses, which are monocots, and their stems are typically round. This combination—parallel-veined leaves plus round stems—sets grasses apart from other weed groups. Sedges usually have triangular stems and leaves that may look similar at a glance but the stem shape is a key telltale sign. Broadleaf weeds, or forbs, have wider leaves with net-like (nonparallel) venation. So the description fits grasses perfectly, which is why that option is the best answer.