Node (botany)
A node is a point on a plant stem where leaves, buds, or branches arise. The stem regions between successive nodes are internodes.
Plant stem: A plant organ that supports leaves and reproductive structures and transports water, minerals, and sugars. Nodes are points along this organ, alternating with internodes.
Apical dominance: The suppression of lateral bud growth by signals from an actively growing shoot tip. It helps determine whether node buds remain dormant or grow into branches.
Stem cutting: A detached piece of stem used to grow a new plant. Cuttings are often made to include one or more viable nodes.
Rhizome: A horizontal underground stem that can produce roots and shoots at its nodes. Its nodes occur on a modified stem, unlike the usual upright aerial stem.
Internode: The portion of a plant stem between two successive nodes. Its length separates the nodes along a stem.
Auxin: A plant hormone involved in growth, development, and responses to environmental signals. Auxin from the shoot tip contributes to suppression of axillary bud growth.
Pruning: The selective removal of plant parts to shape growth, improve health, or manage flowering and fruiting. Cuts made relative to nodes influence which buds can grow afterward.
Stolon: A horizontal stem that grows along or just below the ground and can form new plants at nodes. Its spreading nodes can root and produce shoots, rather than merely bearing leaves.
Phyllotaxis: The arrangement of leaves around a plant stem, often following regular patterns. Leaf placement at successive nodes creates recognizable arrangement patterns.
Cytokinin: A plant hormone that promotes cell division and influences shoot and bud development. Cytokinin can promote growth of buds situated at stem nodes.