Stems

Stems have the role of providing a link between roots and the leaves, flowers and fruits of a plant. Some stems are short-lived and remain small and green while others persist for many years and become large (in both diameter and height) and woody. An important feature of stems is the vascular tissue (xylem and phloem). This vascular tissue provides a route for transport within the plant and also give support to the aerial parts of the plant, holding them, for example, in a suitable position for photosynthesis (leaves) or pollination and dispersal (flowers and fruits).

Images presented in this section introduce the basic features of whole stems, young and old. The first sub-section shows some typical external features then a look at internal structures shows details of the vascular and other tissues in a range of stems. A final sub-section illustrates some adaptations shown by plants, including parasitic plants, xerophytes, climbers and for storage or vegetative reproduction.


Features of whole stems
Internal structures and their functions
Some adaptations and how they help the plant