Tree architecture

How many parts does a tree have...?

Although it largely comes down to subjectiveclassification, a tree can broadly be divided into three parts: roots, trunkand crown.

There are two types of root system - fibrous rootsand taproots. The former consists of thin roots growing laterally from the stemwhile the latter is a dominant, thick, central root. Most trees start out witha 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, innerbark, cambium, sapwood, heartwood and pith. Its purpose is to provide strengthand 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-bearingfruit. The various parts perform various functions including food productionand cooling (leaves), strength and storage (branches) and reproduction (flowersand fruit).

Image: ScienceFacts.net