Question

Explain with the suitable examples the different types of phyllotaxy.

Answer 1

Hint: The phyllotaxy is defined as the set of patterns in which the leaves are arranged on the stem of the plants. It varies from the plant to plant. This better arrangement of leaves provides them more sunlight for the purpose of the photosynthesis. Since the area of the leaves that is exposed to the sunlight mainly depends on the arrangement of the leaves.

Complete answer:
The phyllotaxy in the leaves are classified into three types as alternate phyllotaxy, opposite phyllotaxy and the whorled phyllotaxy.
(1) An alternate phyllotaxy:
In this type of phyllotaxy, the single leaf is present at each node. These leaves are alternate in the position. The examples of this type of phyllotaxy are rose, sun flower, mustard etc.

(2) Opposite phyllotaxy:
In this type, the two leaves are present on either side of the stem. They occur opposite to each other. The example for this type of phyllotaxy are guava, caltrops etc.

(3) Whorled phyllotaxy:

In this type, the leaves are present at the node. It has more than two leaves and is similar to the whorl. The example for this whorled phyllotaxy are alstonia, kaner, tulsi plants, mountain laurel, lemonwood etc.

Note: The opposed type of the phyllotaxy is again classified into two as superposed and the decussate opposite phyllotaxy. In superimposed, the pair of vertical leaves originate in the same plane. In the decussate, one pair of leaves forms the right angle to the other pair of the leaves.