Question

Describe the different ways in which leaves can be arranged on a stem?

Answer 1

Phyllotaxy:

1. The arrangement of leaves around the stem is called phyllotaxy.
2. There are three types of phyllotaxy i.e. alternate, opposite and whorled.

Different ways of arrangement of leaves on the stem:

Alternate phyllotaxy:

1. The arrangement of leaves in which one leaf is present at each node of a stem and all the leaves lie in the same plane is called alternate phyllotaxy.
2. Example: Hibiscus.

Opposite phyllotaxy:

1. In opposite phyllotaxy, two leaves are present at each node and both leaves are opposite to one another.
2. Example: Guava.

Whorled phyllotaxy:

1. In a whorled phyllotaxy, more than two leaves are present in a single node.
2. Example: Sunflower.