Epikormiska

Epikormiska refers to epicormic growth, the development of new shoots from latent buds located beneath the bark of a woody plant. This growth occurs after stress that disrupts the plant’s apical dominance, such as heavy pruning, canopy removal, drought, frost, or mechanical damage. The buds are activated by changes in hormonal balance and the redirection of stored carbohydrates toward regrowth, allowing shoots to emerge on the trunk or major limbs.

Epikormiska shoots are typically slender, pale, and fast-growing. While they can quickly restore photosynthetic area after disturbance, their wood is often less rigid and may require later pruning to maintain the desired form and strength of the tree or shrub. The phenomenon is common across many woody species and can be influenced by species, age, and environmental conditions.

Management and implications vary by context. In horticulture and forestry, epicormic growth is often pruned or thinned to control shape, improve light penetration, and maintain wood quality. In some cases, such shoots contribute to recovery after damage, acting as a rapid means of regrowth when the main canopy is compromised. However, persistent or excessive epicormic growth can indicate ongoing stress or competition and may necessitate adjustments in cultural practices.

Examples of species where epikormiska growth is frequently observed include Eucalyptus after fire, olive trees following pruning, and various broadleaf trees such as oaks and maples. Understanding epicormic growth helps inform decisions about pruning, training, and long-term tree health in landscapes and production systems.