kjernestamme

A kjernestamme, translating to "core trunk" or "central stem" in English, is a biological term primarily used in botany to refer to the main structural axis of a plant's shoot system. It is the primary stem from which branches, leaves, and reproductive structures arise. This central stem is essential for the plant's support, transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the upper parts of the plant, and sugars produced during photosynthesis from the leaves to other parts of the plant.

The kjernestamme develops from the plumule of the embryo during germination. It typically exhibits apical dominance, meaning the terminal bud at the tip of the kjernestamme inhibits the growth of lateral buds, thus promoting upward growth. Over time, the kjernestamme can undergo secondary growth, increasing in girth and developing woody tissues, particularly in perennial plants. This woody kjernestamme forms the main body of trees and shrubs. In contrast, herbaceous plants usually have non-woody kjernestammer that may die back to the ground each year. The structure and development of the kjernestamme are fundamental to understanding plant morphology and growth patterns.