Branching Patterns

Below are several types of branching patterns found throughout the plant kingdom

Dichotomous Branching

Isotomous branching

Anisotomous branching

Pseudomonopodial branching

K-Branching

Above: A reconstruction of Senegelia radicans, a lycophyte from the Early Devonian, exhibiting K-branching 

Monopodial Growth

Phyllotaxis

During growth/development, the SAM produces leaves (or laterals) in a specific pattern along a main stem. This pattern in which these leaves are created and arranged on the stem is called a phyllo-taxis. Below are some common examples (node=place where a leaf attaches to the stems)

Alternate

Opposite

Distichous

Decussate

Whorled

n.b. Roots usually do not show a set pattern like leaves, although the root-like stems (rhizophores) of arborescent clubmosses displayed a spiral "rhizotaxis" of roots emerging from these structures