C-4 plants

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Species having a photosynthetic pathway which results in 4-carbon compounds as initial products of photosynthesis. Includes most warm season grasses, tropical grasses, a few forbs, and at least one shrub. Usually significantly more efficient users of soil nitrogen and water than are C-3 plants. Total biomass production is generally substantially greater than plants with other photosynthetic pathways. Optimum temperature for photosynthesis and growth is in the range of 27 to 35° Celsius (84 to 100° Fahrenheit). See also “photosynthesis.” [Source: USDA National Plant Materials Manual]

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