Question

Explain with suitable examples the different types of phyllotaxy. 

Answer 1

• ‘Phyllotaxy is the pattern of arrangement of leaves on the stem or branch. This is usually of three types alternate, opposite and whorled.
• An alternate arrangement of leaves: In alternate type of phyllotaxy, a single leaf arises at each node in an alternate manner, as in China rose, mustard and sunflower plants.
• Opposite arrangement of leaves: In opposite type, a pair of leaves arise at each node and lie opposite to each other as in Calotropis and guava plants.
• Whorled Arrangement of leaves: If more than two leaves arise at a node and form a whorl, it is called whorled, as in Alstonia.