Understanding the Anatomy of Plant Parts

by Sammy Taylor – January 22, 2025

Plants stand out from other living beings because they help maintain Earth's life systems. Every plant part performs its unique function, starting with its root system, which is held tight to the soil, and ending with its leaves receiving energy from sunlight. Learning about plant anatomy teaches us more about plants while helping gardeners grow healthy plants. 

The Roots: Plants Establish Their Basic Existence Through Their Underground System 

Roots form the base of a plant structure, holding it steady while letting water and nutrients enter through it. The root base produces one straight primary root and multiple horizontal secondary roots. Root systems stay fixed in the soil to protect plants from being blown away or washed away by water. Plants need these parts to store the nutrients and carbohydrates they need when they face hard times. 

Plants have different root types: taproots, fibrous, and adventitious roots. The taproot system of American Beech trees (Fagus grandifolia) reaches deep into the soil to protect against dry conditions. The shallow-reaching roots of grass plants spread extensively to stop soil from washing away. Adventitious roots emerge from parts of the plant other than the primary root system and are found in plants like ivy and corn. 

Plants must have healthy roots to thrive. During planting, avoid damaging roots or creating too many roots together, as this affects plant development and root support. 

The Stem: The Plant's Lifeline 

As the main structure of a plant, the stem supports the plant while transferring vital resources from roots to leaves and back. The stem is a transportation route for plants by connecting nodes where leaves and branches develop with internodes, representing the empty spaces between nodes. This transport system includes the xylem, which moves water from roots to leaves, and the phloem, which distributes sugars made through photosynthesis. 

Plants develop unique stem systems that help them survive in their natural habitats. The Sourwood tree (Oxydendrum arboreum) grows well in different soils because its woody stems are strong and tall. Herbaceous plants like the Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) grow best in shady, moist environments because their flexible stems adapt well. 

Gardeners need to trim plant stems because this process improves new branches' growth and controls plant diseases. Gardeners who understand stems can better care for their plants and help them grow strong. 

The Leaves: Solar Panels of Nature 

Leaves perform photosynthesis by turning sunlight into energy for the plant, and people can easily spot them on any growing plant. Plants' many leaf shapes and growth patterns match their needs for life in different environments. 

A leaf's internal structure consists of the blade area where photosynthesis happens, a petiole that connects to the stem, and vein networks for nutrient transport. A wax layer known as the cuticle covers leaves to stop them from losing water. Stomata on the surface of leaves act as tiny pores to enable oxygen outflow and carbon dioxide inflow. 

The Ginkgo Biloba tree (Ginkgo biloba) stands out with its fan-shaped leaves because they display a vibrant golden color during autumn, which makes gardeners seek them out. When planted in garden beds and borders, Goat's Beard (Aruncus dioicus) leaves appear as feathered compounds. 

Leaves can also protect plants. Plants with spiny or hairy leaves defend themselves from herbivores, while Jewelweed plants produce medicinal secretions that help heal skin. 

Plants in Action: Three Unique Offerings 

Examining the details of particular plant species offers valuable insights into plant anatomy. Here are three plants that showcase the diversity of the plant kingdom: 

Sourwood Tree (Oxydendrum arboreum) 

The deciduous Sourwood Tree becomes famous during fall because its leaves transform into colorful red, orange, and purple shades. The plant stands out because it flowers with white-scented blooms during summer. Sourwood trees grow best in acidic soil with good drainage and need full sunlight to light shade. 

Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) 

Jewelweed grows naturally in wet forest areas because it needs shady spots to grow and produces vibrant orange flowers. Many pollinating bees and hummingbirds visit its flowers while people use it traditionally to calm skin problems. 

Goat's Beard (Aruncus dioicus) 

This garden perennial shines in shaded plantings with its tall, plume-shaped cream flowers. It does best in moist soil and can create textural and tall garden borders in wooded areas. 

Understanding Plant Parts Reveals Their Natural Splendor 

Every plant part works together naturally to help the plant grow and stay alive. Gardeners who understand root, stem, and leaf functions can choose better plants and better care for their plants. Every garden plant brings unique features to the gardening world, including deep roots of American Beech, elegant leaves of Ginkgo biloba, and soft Goat's Beard stems.

Products from the article

Sourwood Tree - TN Nursery

Sourwood Tree

Sourwood Tree - Oxydendrum arboreum The Sourwood Tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous type native to the southeastern United States. It is notable for its long panicles of fragrant, white, urn-shaped flowers and vibrant red fall foliage. Among garden types, this type fits the bill. It grows around 25 feet tall, and its branches generally spread to 10 feet. It will become a stalwart focal point in any garden. These plants are stately enough to please the eye yet small enough not to overpower any perennials planted around them. Another name for this plant is the sorrel. Sourwood Tree Has Beautiful Blooms They say, "Good things come to those who wait." That is true of this plant. Beginning with its fifth season after being planted, it will sprout gorgeous white flowers throughout June and July every year. These bell-shaped flowers grow on panicles in a flowing, attractive fashion that has led them to be called "angel fingers." The flowers are also sweet-smelling, producing so much nectar during their blooming that it drips from the branches at the slightest shake. The Leaves of Sourwood Tree Are Rich and Colorful The leaves will turn brilliant colors in the fall, notably red and deep purple. The bark is reddish brown and is attractively furrowed, matching the hues of the changing leaves. The leaves are pleasantly aromatic, reminiscent of the smell of honey from its nectar. The wonderful aroma is balanced between astringency, which gives the plant its name, and the sweetness of anise. The leaves are oblong and finely tapered, and the surface is glossy enough to reflect sunlight attractively. After the blooms fade at the beginning of August, pretty silvery capsules form along the branches. The color of these capsules meshes nicely with the changing leaves and the furrowed bark into winter. Because the sorrel is a slow-growing plant, its wood and bark are solid and sturdy, providing a beautiful sight in all four seasons. Attract Pollinators With This Stunning Native Pollinators, especially bees, love the flowers of Sourwood Tree, the sweet-and-sour nectar that produces the world's most excellent honey. Birds will also fly among the branches for a snack as autumn turns to winter. As the sorrel is mainly unaffected by pests or disease, it will likely remain a pleasing focal point in any garden for many years. Where Do They Grow The Best They prefer well-drained, acidic soil and can grow in full sun to part shade. This species is native to the southeastern United States but performs well in other climates similar to those of the southern part of the United States. What are the characteristics of them? Their leaves are smooth, slightly glossy, dark green, and lanceolate. In the late season, this plant becomes bright red, orange, and purple and gives a beautiful view throughout autumn. What Are The Benefits Of Them Its autumn foliage colors are splendid; it has many white flowers in summer and a smooth white or grayish-mottled bark in winter. They also collect excellent, tasty, and highly sought-after honey from beekeepers. How do you identify the bark? The outer, thick, fully developed layer is gray to reddish-brown in color, with deep and well-spaced furrows and a crenelated surface. What Type Of Fertilizer Is Favorable For These The Sourwood Tree should be fertilized using a slow-release fertilizer. Spray in the early spring to ensure the plants grow well and develop a strong stem.

From $19.98
From $19.98
Jewelweed Plant - TN Nursery

Jewelweed Plant

Jewelweed - Impatiens Capensis Jewelweed is known for its vibrant appearance and unique characteristics and offers various landscaping benefits. Its inclusion can contribute to a garden or outdoor space's overall aesthetic appeal and ecological balance.  It is an annual wildflower known as orange balsam and spotted touch-me-not. Some say it gets its name from the sparkling dewdrops that line its leaves in the morning, while others contend that the brilliant, red-spotted orange flowers glow like bright jewels. These flowers are also famous for their explosive seed pods, which give the plant the name "touch-me-not." Native to northern and eastern North America, it starts blooming in June and continues until it succumbs to October frosts. The flower grows naturally in cool, low woodlands and decorates shady stream banks, creek banks, lakesides, and marshes. The Appearance Of Jewelweed  Orange balsam is a lush green wildflower that grows 3'–5' tall. It branches prolifically and produces a profusion of inch-long, spotted orange blossoms with blood-orange or red markings. Each delicate blossom hangs from its stalk among neighboring flowers. They have two lips, five petals, and three sepals, one of which is a pouch-shaped structure with a nectar spur that curves back under the rest of the flower. The blooms form small clusters that rise above the herb's upper leaves. The plant's round green to reddish-green stems are smooth, succulent, and semi-translucent. Its toothed, spade-shaped, bluish-green leaves are usually about 2½"–3" long and grow alternating on the herb's upper stems. Jewelweed Is Great In Woodland Gardens  It makes a beautiful addition to woodland gardens, shady rain gardens, and pollinator gardens. It's great for ponds, bog gardens, and lowland areas. Although it's an annual, this wildflower tends to return once established. Pollinators Love the Plant The blossoms attract butterflies and other pollinators. Hummingbirds and bumblebees, the herb's primary pollinators, find nourishment in its sweet nectar and play a significant role in its successful propagation. It is also a food source for moth caterpillars, bobwhite quail, mice, and deer, and it is fond of its stems, leaves, and seeds. If you'd like to add a bright pop of orange to your summer garden, planting it will bring joy to your landscape with its delightful blooms. It is a shady ornamental herbaceous plant. It blooms orange trumpet-shaped flowers. The plant will do best around a wetland or a stream.  The name is given because of the beads the water drops make on the leaves, which shine like jewels when exposed to the sunlight.  Is It Easy To Grow It is an easy-growing plant and likes moist, shady areas. Once planted, it grows itself, so it's perfect for a natural garden.   Its nectar is a draw for butterflies and other insect pollinators so that live miracles will be in your compound. It also feeds many insects and, in this way, supplants natural landscapes.  Jewelweed is happy in rich soil and does not need to be fertilized. But if you have to put in fertilizer, put 10-10-10 in. Never fertilize too much, or they will produce too much foliage.
From $8.99
From $8.99
Goat's Beard Plant - TN Nursery

Goat's Beard Plant

Goat's Beard Plant - Aruncus Dioicus Goat's Beard Plant is recognized for its feathery plumes of small, creamy-white flowers atop tall, upright stems and fern-like foliage, which add a graceful touch to gardens and landscapes. It is a charming and beneficial type with several advantages in landscaping projects. This perennial belongs to the Rosaceae family and is admired for its striking plume-like flowers and attractive foliage. One of the primary benefits of incorporating it into landscaping is its captivating appearance. The whimsical, fun aesthetic of the perennial makes it a lively contribution to any landscape. It is a welcome addition to any home or commercial garden, with striking fern-like foliage reminiscent of a goat beard. Goat's Beard Plant Is A Stunning Native Landscaping does not have to be complicated or time-consuming. By picking the right ones, you can easily enhance any landscape. Thanks to the fluff-like flair of this perennial flower, you can add a dash of eye-catching style to your lawn without the need for extensive digging or hardscaping. Scientifically known as Aruncus dioicus, this blossom is perfect for adding elegance, grandeur, and effortless sophistication to a garden. Goat's Beard Plant Can Reach 6 Feet Tall With an impressive height of 3-6 feet, the Arancus dioicus gives your garden an earthy, magical feel. Its flowers bloom in a rich cream color on groups of clustered branches; though delicate, they are unmistakable and sure to capture anyone's attention as they stroll through your garden. On a sunny evening in summer, these flowers, often called bride's feathers, boast plume-like foliage that sway in the breeze. You'll usually find them growing in woodland areas, forests, and meadows. For gardeners dreaming of a natural, wild feel for their landscape, this is a marvelous addition to their botanical collection. Attract Pollinators With This Perennial  In addition to their gorgeous blossoms, these flowers also sport strong sets of leaves that range from large to small, raising the stem and creating visual depth and fullness. Grouped, these flowers can form a gorgeous family of blossoms that enhance any landscape. Partnered with other flowers, particularly those in vibrant blue, orange, and pink hues, they are breathtaking features in any scenery. It Blooms May To June It flowers bloom from May through June, offering a beautiful display of plush, airy blossoms. Easy to grow and maintain, they are often popular among gardeners who like meadow-inspired flora and have large spaces they wish to fill with native species. Does It Grow Fast It grows relatively fast, especially when grown under the right conditions. It usually takes 2-3 years to grow into maturity, after which it develops pretty foliage and magnificent plumes of white flowers when in bloom. Where is the best place to put It It does great in part to full shade and prefers rich, moist soils that are well-draining. It is great for woodland gardens or shaded borders. What Is The Lifespan Of It Proper care for it assures it can survive for several years, often lasting about 10-15 years or even more. The perennial grows year after year, which means that it will make a lasting impression in your yard. Should I prune it? Trimming is not required, but if done, it will ensure that the perennial assumes the right shape and supports growth. How To Maintain It Goat's beard plant can be grown by watering it when the conditions are dry and applying a layer of organic material over the top to help the soil retain moisture. Frequent but light feeding is recommended in spring.
From $7.99
From $7.99
Sourwood Tree - TN Nursery

Sourwood Tree

Sourwood Tree - Oxydendrum arboreum The Sourwood Tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous type native to the southeastern United States. It is notable for its long panicles of fragrant, white, urn-shaped flowers and vibrant red fall foliage. Among garden types, this type fits the bill. It grows around 25 feet tall, and its branches generally spread to 10 feet. It will become a stalwart focal point in any garden. These plants are stately enough to please the eye yet small enough not to overpower any perennials planted around them. Another name for this plant is the sorrel. Sourwood Tree Has Beautiful Blooms They say, "Good things come to those who wait." That is true of this plant. Beginning with its fifth season after being planted, it will sprout gorgeous white flowers throughout June and July every year. These bell-shaped flowers grow on panicles in a flowing, attractive fashion that has led them to be called "angel fingers." The flowers are also sweet-smelling, producing so much nectar during their blooming that it drips from the branches at the slightest shake. The Leaves of Sourwood Tree Are Rich and Colorful The leaves will turn brilliant colors in the fall, notably red and deep purple. The bark is reddish brown and is attractively furrowed, matching the hues of the changing leaves. The leaves are pleasantly aromatic, reminiscent of the smell of honey from its nectar. The wonderful aroma is balanced between astringency, which gives the plant its name, and the sweetness of anise. The leaves are oblong and finely tapered, and the surface is glossy enough to reflect sunlight attractively. After the blooms fade at the beginning of August, pretty silvery capsules form along the branches. The color of these capsules meshes nicely with the changing leaves and the furrowed bark into winter. Because the sorrel is a slow-growing plant, its wood and bark are solid and sturdy, providing a beautiful sight in all four seasons. Attract Pollinators With This Stunning Native Pollinators, especially bees, love the flowers of Sourwood Tree, the sweet-and-sour nectar that produces the world's most excellent honey. Birds will also fly among the branches for a snack as autumn turns to winter. As the sorrel is mainly unaffected by pests or disease, it will likely remain a pleasing focal point in any garden for many years. Where Do They Grow The Best They prefer well-drained, acidic soil and can grow in full sun to part shade. This species is native to the southeastern United States but performs well in other climates similar to those of the southern part of the United States. What are the characteristics of them? Their leaves are smooth, slightly glossy, dark green, and lanceolate. In the late season, this plant becomes bright red, orange, and purple and gives a beautiful view throughout autumn. What Are The Benefits Of Them Its autumn foliage colors are splendid; it has many white flowers in summer and a smooth white or grayish-mottled bark in winter. They also collect excellent, tasty, and highly sought-after honey from beekeepers. How do you identify the bark? The outer, thick, fully developed layer is gray to reddish-brown in color, with deep and well-spaced furrows and a crenelated surface. What Type Of Fertilizer Is Favorable For These The Sourwood Tree should be fertilized using a slow-release fertilizer. Spray in the early spring to ensure the plants grow well and develop a strong stem.

From $19.98
From $19.98
Jewelweed Plant - TN Nursery

Jewelweed Plant

Jewelweed - Impatiens Capensis Jewelweed is known for its vibrant appearance and unique characteristics and offers various landscaping benefits. Its inclusion can contribute to a garden or outdoor space's overall aesthetic appeal and ecological balance.  It is an annual wildflower known as orange balsam and spotted touch-me-not. Some say it gets its name from the sparkling dewdrops that line its leaves in the morning, while others contend that the brilliant, red-spotted orange flowers glow like bright jewels. These flowers are also famous for their explosive seed pods, which give the plant the name "touch-me-not." Native to northern and eastern North America, it starts blooming in June and continues until it succumbs to October frosts. The flower grows naturally in cool, low woodlands and decorates shady stream banks, creek banks, lakesides, and marshes. The Appearance Of Jewelweed  Orange balsam is a lush green wildflower that grows 3'–5' tall. It branches prolifically and produces a profusion of inch-long, spotted orange blossoms with blood-orange or red markings. Each delicate blossom hangs from its stalk among neighboring flowers. They have two lips, five petals, and three sepals, one of which is a pouch-shaped structure with a nectar spur that curves back under the rest of the flower. The blooms form small clusters that rise above the herb's upper leaves. The plant's round green to reddish-green stems are smooth, succulent, and semi-translucent. Its toothed, spade-shaped, bluish-green leaves are usually about 2½"–3" long and grow alternating on the herb's upper stems. Jewelweed Is Great In Woodland Gardens  It makes a beautiful addition to woodland gardens, shady rain gardens, and pollinator gardens. It's great for ponds, bog gardens, and lowland areas. Although it's an annual, this wildflower tends to return once established. Pollinators Love the Plant The blossoms attract butterflies and other pollinators. Hummingbirds and bumblebees, the herb's primary pollinators, find nourishment in its sweet nectar and play a significant role in its successful propagation. It is also a food source for moth caterpillars, bobwhite quail, mice, and deer, and it is fond of its stems, leaves, and seeds. If you'd like to add a bright pop of orange to your summer garden, planting it will bring joy to your landscape with its delightful blooms. It is a shady ornamental herbaceous plant. It blooms orange trumpet-shaped flowers. The plant will do best around a wetland or a stream.  The name is given because of the beads the water drops make on the leaves, which shine like jewels when exposed to the sunlight.  Is It Easy To Grow It is an easy-growing plant and likes moist, shady areas. Once planted, it grows itself, so it's perfect for a natural garden.   Its nectar is a draw for butterflies and other insect pollinators so that live miracles will be in your compound. It also feeds many insects and, in this way, supplants natural landscapes.  Jewelweed is happy in rich soil and does not need to be fertilized. But if you have to put in fertilizer, put 10-10-10 in. Never fertilize too much, or they will produce too much foliage.
From $8.99
From $8.99
Goat's Beard Plant - TN Nursery

Goat's Beard Plant

Goat's Beard Plant - Aruncus Dioicus Goat's Beard Plant is recognized for its feathery plumes of small, creamy-white flowers atop tall, upright stems and fern-like foliage, which add a graceful touch to gardens and landscapes. It is a charming and beneficial type with several advantages in landscaping projects. This perennial belongs to the Rosaceae family and is admired for its striking plume-like flowers and attractive foliage. One of the primary benefits of incorporating it into landscaping is its captivating appearance. The whimsical, fun aesthetic of the perennial makes it a lively contribution to any landscape. It is a welcome addition to any home or commercial garden, with striking fern-like foliage reminiscent of a goat beard. Goat's Beard Plant Is A Stunning Native Landscaping does not have to be complicated or time-consuming. By picking the right ones, you can easily enhance any landscape. Thanks to the fluff-like flair of this perennial flower, you can add a dash of eye-catching style to your lawn without the need for extensive digging or hardscaping. Scientifically known as Aruncus dioicus, this blossom is perfect for adding elegance, grandeur, and effortless sophistication to a garden. Goat's Beard Plant Can Reach 6 Feet Tall With an impressive height of 3-6 feet, the Arancus dioicus gives your garden an earthy, magical feel. Its flowers bloom in a rich cream color on groups of clustered branches; though delicate, they are unmistakable and sure to capture anyone's attention as they stroll through your garden. On a sunny evening in summer, these flowers, often called bride's feathers, boast plume-like foliage that sway in the breeze. You'll usually find them growing in woodland areas, forests, and meadows. For gardeners dreaming of a natural, wild feel for their landscape, this is a marvelous addition to their botanical collection. Attract Pollinators With This Perennial  In addition to their gorgeous blossoms, these flowers also sport strong sets of leaves that range from large to small, raising the stem and creating visual depth and fullness. Grouped, these flowers can form a gorgeous family of blossoms that enhance any landscape. Partnered with other flowers, particularly those in vibrant blue, orange, and pink hues, they are breathtaking features in any scenery. It Blooms May To June It flowers bloom from May through June, offering a beautiful display of plush, airy blossoms. Easy to grow and maintain, they are often popular among gardeners who like meadow-inspired flora and have large spaces they wish to fill with native species. Does It Grow Fast It grows relatively fast, especially when grown under the right conditions. It usually takes 2-3 years to grow into maturity, after which it develops pretty foliage and magnificent plumes of white flowers when in bloom. Where is the best place to put It It does great in part to full shade and prefers rich, moist soils that are well-draining. It is great for woodland gardens or shaded borders. What Is The Lifespan Of It Proper care for it assures it can survive for several years, often lasting about 10-15 years or even more. The perennial grows year after year, which means that it will make a lasting impression in your yard. Should I prune it? Trimming is not required, but if done, it will ensure that the perennial assumes the right shape and supports growth. How To Maintain It Goat's beard plant can be grown by watering it when the conditions are dry and applying a layer of organic material over the top to help the soil retain moisture. Frequent but light feeding is recommended in spring.
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