Question

Alstonia has _____________ at each node.

• A. single leaf
• B. two leaves
• C. more than two leaves
• D. two terminal buds

Answer 1

The correct option is C more than two leaves

Phyllotaxy is the pattern of arrangement of leaves on the stem. Leaves arise from the nodes.

In Alstonia, more than two leaves arise from each node and form a whorl. Such an arrangement is called whorled phyllotaxy.

The arrangement where just one leaf arises from each node in an alternate manner is known as alternate phyllotaxy. For example - Hibiscus (China rose).

When two leaves arise from each node in a single plane, the arrangement is known as the opposite superposed phyllotaxy. For example - Guava.

When successive pairs of leaves are at right angles to each other, the arrangement of leaves is known as opposite decussate phyllotaxy. For example - Calotropis.

Terminal buds or apical buds are present at the shoot apex and not at the nodes.

Alstonia showing whorled phyllotaxy