Question

Ramu collected epiphyllous buds from a plant. The plant from which he has collected these buds can be
A. Murraya
B. Bryophyllum
C. Neem
D. Hibiscus

Answer 1

Hint: This plant is widely used in Ayurveda as analgesic, astringent, etc. It is also useful in vomiting and diarrhea. This plant is also known as air plant, life plant, miracle plant, cathedral bells, etc.

Complete Answer:
- The tiny buds on the edges of the leaf are known as epiphyllous buds. The buds give rise to new plants when we keep the buds in the ground. New buds appear again on the leaf margins of the new plants.
- The Murraya paniculata are the shrub species or small tree that is native to South Asia or South East Asia and Australia. It is generally referred to as orange jasmine, China box or mock orange. It has smooth bark, pinnate leaves with up to seven egg-shaped leaflets, oval, orange red seeds containing haired seeds, fragrant white or creamy flowers.
- Buds are referred to as epiphyll buds in Bryophyllum. The plant leaves are used in the vegetative propagation of the natural form. In the margins of the leaf, the epiphyllous buds are made. This bud germinates and when the leaf falls on the ground, the young plantlet emerges. These buds may be used to grow new plants.
- The Neem is a fast-growing tropical tree. In Indian cuisine, the neem flowers are known for better digestive health and both buds and flowers are used. They can be used as fresh, dry and powder forms.

Thus, the correct answer is option B. i.e., Bryophyllum.

Note: Epiphyllous budding in restricted plant species is a unique method of vegetative reproduction. Leaf detachment stimulates these buds and then transforms the plantlets by distinguishing the roots and shoot. Leaf detachment not only causes differentiation of the bud but also triggers foliar senescence at the same time.