Characteristics of Stem

The stem arises as a prolongation of plumule (one end of an embryo). It grows and bends towards light (positively phototropic) and away from gravity (negatively geotropic). It is divided into nodes (point of attachment of leaf) and internodes (regions between two nodes).

The stem bears leaves, branches and flowers on nodes. It bears vegetative buds which could be terminal (apical bud) for plant to grow upwards or axillary (bud in the axil of leaf) which give rise to lateral branches. It bears floral buds (terminal or axillary) that grow into flowers.

Difference Between Stem and Root

Stem

1. Develops from plumule.
2. Young stem is green because of chlorophyll.
3. Divided into nodes and internodes.
4. Bears leaves, vegetative and floral buds.
5. No cap present at the apex.
6. Positively phototropic and negatively geotropic.
7. Origin of lateral branches is exogenous (originating from outer layers i.e. endodermis).

Root

1. Develops from radicle.
2. Non green because chlorophyll is absent.
3. Not divided into nodes and internodes.
4. Leaves, vegetative and floral buds absent.
5. Root cap is present at the apex.
6. Negatively phototropic but positively geotropic.
7. Origin of lateral roots is endogenous (originating from inner layers i.e. pericycle).