Understanding Stem Anatomy

Front

A mark on the stem where the leaf used to be.

Back

Leaf Scar

Front

Specialized stem that is usually horizontal and above the soil.

Back

Stolon

Front

Specialized stem made of a short, flat stem with many fleshy leaves attached.

Back

Bulb

Front

Tube-shaped cells inside of a stem, which carry food down from the leaves.

Back

Phloem

Front

Actively growing tip found inside a terminal or lateral buds

Back

Apical Meristem

Front

A mark on the outside of a stem that allows gas to be exchanged.

Back

Lenticel

Front

Area on a stem that lies between two leaves or buds.

Back

Internode

Front

Small protective structure that can be seen on the outside of a bud.

Back

Bud Scale

Front

Specialized stem that has a tip that is swollen with stored food.

Back

Tuber

Front

Area on the stem that shows the location of last year’s bud.

Back

Bud Scale Scar