galho

Galho is a noun in Portuguese that denotes a branch or twig of a plant, especially of trees and shrubs. It refers to a slender, usually secondary limb that grows from the trunk or from a larger branch. The term is used across different Portuguese-speaking countries and in various disciplines, including daily language, horticulture, and forestry. The plural form is galhos, and the singular is masculine: o galho.

In horticulture and gardening, galho can refer to a shoot or branch that may be pruned to manage growth or used as a cutting for vegetative propagation. The concept encompasses both live, growing branches and dried or cut branches used for various purposes, such as pruning residues or ornamental sprigs.

Common phrases include galho de árvore (tree branch), galho de cana or galho de planta (stalks or shoots of specific plants), and galho de ervas aromáticas like alecrim or hortelã, used as garnish or flavoring. Galhos secos are often addressed in pruning practices and yard maintenance, where removing or clearing them helps promote healthier growth or reduce hazards.

In summary, galho refers to a branch-like part of a plant, functioning as a component of growth, pruning, and propagation in botanical and everyday contexts. It is a versatile term applicable to many plant species and practical situations involving branches and shoots.