1. Grasses and Sedges: Grasslands and savannas were expanding during the late Miocene and Pliocene epochs, and saber-toothed tigers often inhabited these open areas. Grasses, such as the ancestors of modern wheat, barley, and oats, were abundant, along with sedges and rushes in wetland environments.
2. Trees: Various types of trees were present, including conifers like pines, firs, and spruces, as well as broadleaf trees such as oaks, maples, and walnuts. Forests covered large parts of the globe, providing shelter and food for saber-toothed tigers and their prey.
3. Shrubs and Bushes: Many species of shrubs and bushes flourished during this period, including plants like wild roses, hawthorns, and blackberries. These provided fruits, berries, and foliage for saber-toothed tigers and other animals.
4. Succulent Plants: In drier regions, succulent plants adapted to arid environments, such as cacti and agaves, were common. These plants stored water and provided sustenance for various herbivores, which in turn supported saber-toothed tiger populations.
5. Flowering Plants: Flowering plants, including wildflowers, lilies, and sunflowers, were abundant during this time. These plants provided nectar and pollen for insects and birds, indirectly contributing to the food chain that ultimately sustained saber-toothed tigers.
6. Megaflora: During certain periods, the Earth also experienced periods of "megaflora," characterized by giant versions of modern-day plants. For instance, some species of ferns and horsetails grew to immense sizes, providing ample vegetation for herbivores and, consequently, saber-toothed tigers.
It's important to note that the exact distribution and abundance of these plants varied depending on the region and climate conditions during specific time periods. Over millions of years, the Earth's flora underwent significant changes due to factors like continental drift, climate shifts, and the evolution of plant species.