L11 Plant Science: Anatomy: Stems Flashcards
(20 cards)
What are the main functions of stems?
- Support
- Transport of water and nutrients between parts of the plant (contain xylem and phloem vessels)
- Photosynthesis (production of energy from sunlight)
- Contain less medicinal biochemistry than flowers, seeds, or leaves
What is the role of the apical (or terminal) bud?
Contains cells to lengthen the stem (meristem)
The apical bud is crucial for the vertical growth of the plant.
What is an axillary bud?
Located at the angle of the stem and leaf
The axillary bud can develop into a new branch or flower.
Fill in the blank: Stems generally contain less medicinal _______ than flowers, seeds, or leaves.
[biochemistry]
What happens to the leaf as new stem grows from the axillary bud?
The leaf sheds leaving a scar
This scar indicates where the leaf was attached to the stem.
What type of cells are found in the pith (parenchyma) of stems?
- Unspecialised cells
- Adaptable to various purposes, including storage.
What are the two main types of vascular tissue in stems?
- Xylem
- Phloem
What is the role of the vascular cambium in stems?
Tissue dividing phloem from xylem in vascular bundles
What forms the protective outer bark of woody stems?
Cork formed from cork cambium impregnated with suberin
Suberin is a waxy waterproof substance that provides protection to the stem.
What are lenticels?
Visible pores that allow gases to enter the wood
Lenticels are important for gas exchange in woody plants.
What comprises the core of a woody stem?
Heartwood comprising dead xylem tissue
Heartwood is typically darker and serves as a structural support.
What is found on the periphery of a woody stem?
Sapwood containing living xylem
Sapwood is responsible for the transport of water and nutrients.
What separates heartwood from sapwood in a woody stem?
Vascular cambium
What is a rhizome?
A continuously growing horizontal underground stem which puts out lateral roots and adventitious roots at intervals.
Sometimes called a “rootstock”. Example: the edible part of Ginger is a rhizome.
What is the function of a bulb?
Underground storage and asexual reproduction
What is a corm?
- A solid, swollen stem base—not layered like a bulb
- Usually round or oval and covered with a papery tunic
Define a runner in plant adaptations.
- A creeping horizontal stem –above ground
- Produces adventitious buds and roots which form new plants
What distinguishes stolons from runners?
Stolons are like runners but grow vertically.
What is a tuber?
A structure for energy storage and asexual reproduction at the tip of a stolon. When the stolon dies, the tuber becomes independent and produces stems and roots.
What are cladophylls?
Flattened stems that look like leaves.
