Question

In Calotropis, the phyllotaxy is

• A. Alternate
• B. Verticillate
• C. Opposite and superposed
• D. Opposite and decussate

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Opposite and decussate

Phyllotaxy is the mode of arrangement of leaves on the stem. It is opposite and decussate in Calotropis. When each opposite pair of leaves are at right angles to each other, phyllotaxy is said to be opposite and decussate.

When a single leaf arises from the node of a branch, phyllotaxy is said to be alternate e.g., sunflower, mustard etc.

When there are two leaves in a whorl, phyllotaxy is said to be verticillate e.g., eEscotch pine, house leek etc.

When each opposite pairs of leaves are arranged in same plane, phyllotaxy is said to be opposite and superposed e.g., quisqualis, jamun etc.

Thus, the correct answer is option D.