Question

In which of the following are ochreate stipules found?
A. Cruciferae
B. Papilionaceae
C. Composite
D. Polygonaceae

Answer 1

Hint: The leafy appendages present below the leaves on both sides are known as stipules. These appendages can show a wide range of structural diversity. Bothe the stipules join on the outer and inner margin making a hollow tube which encases the stem up to the node. They are hence termed as ochreate since the stipules join to form a leaf sheath.

Complete answer:
A stipule which appears to be a solid tube which goes around the whole stem is called an ochreate stipule. Its main function is to protect the leaves from buds. They are usually seen in the Polygonaceae family.
Considering other options:
A. Cruciferae comprises mostly economically important plants like mustard, cabbage, broccoli, turnip etc. The leaves of these plants are exstipulated, which means there are no stipules found in these plants.
B. Papilionaceae comprises mostly herbs and shrubs among which most are cultivated to produce pulses. They are sometimes simple stipulates or secondary stipules that arise from the base of the leaflets.
C. Composite is one of the largest families of flowering plants. These plants do not possess stipules and the common examples are aster, daisy, sunflowers etc. The family is characterized by having a lot of small flowers arranged into an inflorescence.

So, the correct answer is “Option D”.

Note:
An outgrowth usually occurring on both sides of the leafstalk is termed as a stipule. Based on morphology they might usually appear as spines, hairs, glands, scales, and laminar structures. In cases where the stipules encircle the stem, they are called ochrea.