[Structural theory of phyllotaxis. II. Relationship between lower and higher forms of phyllotaxis]

Abstract

Opposite phyllotaxis forms are defined as superior ones in relation to alternate phyllotaxis forms, and verticillate phyllotaxis forms are defined as superior ones in relation to opposite phyllotaxis forms. On the basis of hypothetical notions about the properties of plant bumps and embryos, the probable mechanisms of creation of superior phyllotaxis forms from the lower ones are analyzed. It is shown that superior phyllotaxis forms can be considered to result from the combination of lower ones and that the superior forms can be split into the corresponding lower ones under artificial or natural influences.