Question

Chrysanthemum multiplies vegetatively by

• A. Suckers
• B. Runners
• C. Stolons
• D. Rhizomes

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Suckers

In some plants, the subaerial stems are modified for the purpose of vegetative reproduction. They are of different types like runners, offset, stolons and suckers.

The runner arises from the base of the stem as a lateral branch and runs along the surface of the soil. It develops distinct nodes and internodes. At each node, the runner produces roots below and leaves above e.g., Oxalis, Fragaria etc.

An offset is a short runner like the branch which produces the new plant at its tip. The offset grows in all direction from the main stem of parent plant usually along the surface of the water. If separated from parent plant offset can grow in an independent plant e.g., Pistia, Eichhornia.

Stolons are lateral branches that arise from the stem above the soil for a certain distance. When the tip touches the ground at the nodal region, it produces a new plant. As the plant grows the stolons grow horizontally outward for a varying distance in the soil.Ultimately their end emerges out of the ground and develops into a new plant e.g., Mentha, Rosaceae.

A lateral branch arising from main stem close to the ground level travels underground for some distance. This branch is called a sucker. It turns up at its end and produces adventitious roots in the ground and shoots above forming a new plant. Chrysanthemums, mainly cultivated for its beautiful flowers propagates through suckers.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.