Woody Plant Structure

Woody plants are classified by growth habit and include three categories: tree, shrub and liana. Leaves are the primary organ in vascular plants where photosynthesis occurs, converting light energy into chemical energy. The stem is the main organ responsible for the above ground structure of plant. Woody plants undergo primary growth through rapidly dividing cells in the apical meristems within the stem apex to increase length. Secondary growth occurs in woody plants through lateral meristems, including both the vascular cambium and cork cambium to increase stem thickness. Tendrils have the capability to curve toward contact and have subsequent sclerenchyma development for weight support of the plants. The genetic make-up of the different plant species dictates the development, size, form and function of the root system and is directly influenced by the plant’s environment and management. Woody plants generally consist of six primary organs: leaves, stems, roots, flowers, fruits and seeds.