"Parasitaxus usta" is unique as the only known parasitic gymnosperm. It is found in both gymnosperm and angiosperm plants. The life cycle of a gymnosperm is similar. This environment was dominated plant by gymnosperm trees. Hardwood contrasts with softwood (which is from gymnosperm trees). The region provides shelter to various thallophyte, bryophyte, pteridophyte, gymnosperm, and angiosperm species. The only recorded gymnosperm is the swamp cypress. There are over 1000 living species of gymnosperm. It is generally mentioned that "Parasitaxus usta" is the only known parasitic gymnosperm. Most recent systems place the Welwitschiaceae in the gymnosperm order Gnetales. This is typical of a gymnosperm reproduction, not an angiosperm. Microsporocytes are produced in the microsporangia of gymnosperm cones and the anthers of angiosperms. Softwood is usually wood from gymnosperm trees such as pines and spruces. Gymnosperm wood also often contains resin ducts. Popular examples of xerophytes are cacti, pineapple and some Gymnosperm plants.