Shoot (botany)

In botany, a shoot is a collective term referring to the above-ground vegetative parts of a plant. It typically consists of stems, leaves, and any reproductive structures like flowers or fruits.

The shoot system contrasts with the root system, which is the below-ground portion. Together, the shoot and root systems comprise the entire plant body. The shoot system is responsible for photosynthesis (in leaves), transport of water and nutrients (in stems), and reproduction (in flowers and fruits).

Shoots arise from buds located on the stem. These buds contain undifferentiated cells capable of developing into new stems, leaves, or flowers. The development of a shoot is influenced by environmental factors like light availability, water, and nutrient levels, as well as internal hormonal signals within the plant.

Shoots exhibit a variety of growth patterns and architectures depending on the plant species. They can be erect, prostrate (creeping along the ground), climbing, or modified into specialized structures such as tendrils or thorns. The arrangement of leaves on a shoot, known as phyllotaxy, is also highly variable and can be used for plant identification.

The health and vigor of a plant's shoot system are crucial for its overall survival and reproductive success. Damage to the shoot, such as from herbivory or disease, can significantly impact the plant's ability to photosynthesize and reproduce.