What is a Stem?

A stem is the main support of a plant, which holds the leaves, flowers, and fruits. It also helps transport water, nutrients, and food throughout the plant.

Parts of a Stem

The main parts of a stem include:

• Node: The area on the stem where leaves, branches, or flowers are attached.
• Internode: The section of the stem between two nodes.
• Bud: A small, undeveloped shoot or flower on the stem.
• Apical Meristem: The growing tip of the stem.

Functions of a Stem

The stem serves several important functions in a plant:

1. Support: The stem provides structural support for the plant, holding up the leaves and flowers.
2. Transport: It transports water and nutrients from the roots to the rest of the plant, and transports food produced in the leaves to other parts of the plant.
3. Growth: The stem contains meristematic tissue that allows the plant to grow in length and develop new leaves and flowers.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about stems:

1. What is the main function of a stem?
2. Identify and label the parts of a stem.
3. Explain how water and nutrients are transported in a plant.
4. Describe the role of meristematic tissue in stem growth.

Understanding the structure and function of stems is essential for learning about plant biology and how plants grow and develop.

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