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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
A rhizome is a specialized stem
structure in which the main axis of
the plant grows horizontally at or
just below the ground.
Most species that make rhizomes
are monocots, but there are a few
examples in dicots and ferns
produce rhizomes or rhizome-like
structures.
Rabbit’s foot
fern (Davallia)
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
There are two main types of rhizomes :
Leptomorphs
Pachymorphs
Leptomorphs produce indeterminate
stems that continue to develop new
plants at each node.
Pachymorphs produce large slow
growing horizontal stems that are
determinate ending in a flowering stem.
There are also intermediate forms
between the two called mesomorphs.
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
Leptomorph stems are
indeterminate and tend
to have long internodes
and have lateral buds at
each node that may
remain dormant or
produce new shoots.
Pachysandra
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
Leptomorphs do not form clumps, rather
they spread extensively over an area as seen
in plants like lily-of-the-valley (Convallaria).
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
Bamboo can produce aggressive
leptomorphic rhizomes that can
spread over extensive areas.
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
In contrast to a leptomorph,
pachymorph rhizomes are
determinant structures that
terminate each season's growth with
a flowering bud (red arrow), while
vegetative growth continues at the
lateral buds.
Solomon's seal
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Polygonatum
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
Trillium also develops from a
pachymorph rhizome.
Tillium grandiflora
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Stem form and shape
Rhizomes
Plants with rhizomes are propagated by
dividing the rhizome into sections
containing vegetative buds.
Iris
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