Which leaf arrangement features three or more leaves per node?

Which leaf arrangement features three or more leaves per node?

• A. Alternate leaf
• B. Compound leaf
• C. Opposite leaf
• D. Whorled leaf

Answer: (D)

Leaf arrangement at a node describes how many leaves attach at a single point on the stem and how they sit around it. A whorled arrangement means three or more leaves emerge from the same node, all around the stem. That exactly matches the idea of three or more leaves sharing one point, which is why it’s the best choice. For example, Nerium oleander often shows whorls of three leaves, and some plants have even larger whorls. By comparison, an alternate arrangement has one leaf per node that alternates sides as you move up the stem, and opposite means two leaves grow directly opposite each other at the same node. A compound leaf describes a single leaf blade divided into multiple leaflets, which isn’t about how many individual leaves appear at a node.

Leaf arrangement at a node describes how many leaves attach at a single point on the stem and how they sit around it. A whorled arrangement means three or more leaves emerge from the same node, all around the stem. That exactly matches the idea of three or more leaves sharing one point, which is why it’s the best choice. For example, Nerium oleander often shows whorls of three leaves, and some plants have even larger whorls.

By comparison, an alternate arrangement has one leaf per node that alternates sides as you move up the stem, and opposite means two leaves grow directly opposite each other at the same node. A compound leaf describes a single leaf blade divided into multiple leaflets, which isn’t about how many individual leaves appear at a node.