Tree architecture

How many parts does a tree have...?

Although it largely comes down to subjective classification, a tree can broadly be divided into three parts: roots, trunk and crown.

There are two types of root system - fibrous roots and taproots. The former consists of thin roots growing laterally from the stem while the latter is a dominant, thick, central root. Most trees start out with a taproot and evolve towards fibrous roots.

Roots serve to anchor a tree and absorb water,minerals and oxygen for onward distribution.

The trunk (bole) consists of outer bark, inner bark, cambium, sapwood, heartwood and pith. Its purpose is to provide strength and protect the delicate inner tree while making new cells (cambium), supporting the crown and transporting water and nutrients.

In simple terms, the crown is the top part of atree, consisting of branches, leaves and flowers that become seed-bearing fruit. The various parts perform various functions including food production and cooling (leaves), strength and storage (branches) and reproduction (flower sand fruit).

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