Question

Alternate phyllotaxy is found in which of the following plants?

• A. Calotropis
• B. Guava
• C. Alstonia
• D. China Rose

Hint:

Remember: China Rose = Alternate, Guava and Calotropis = Opposite, Alstonia = Whorled.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Phyllotaxy refers to the arrangement of leaves on the stem or branch of a plant. The three common types are:
• Alternate phyllotaxy
• Opposite phyllotaxy
• Whorled phyllotaxy Understanding examples of each type is important in plant morphology.

Step 1: Understanding Alternate Phyllotaxy
In alternate phyllotaxy, a single leaf arises at each node and the leaves are arranged alternately along the stem. Examples include:
• China Rose
• Mustard
• Sunflower

Step 2: Examine Option (A)
Calotropis exhibits opposite phyllotaxy where two leaves arise at the same node in opposite directions. Therefore, Option (A) is incorrect.

Step 3: Examine Option (B)
Guava also exhibits opposite phyllotaxy. Hence, Option (B) is incorrect.

Step 4: Examine Option (C)
Alstonia exhibits whorled phyllotaxy in which more than two leaves arise from a single node. Hence, Option (C) is incorrect.

Step 5: Examine Option (D)
China Rose is the classic example of alternate phyllotaxy. Hence, Option (D) is correct. \[ \boxed{\text{(D) China Rose}} \]