Step 1: Understanding annual rings.
Annual rings (or growth rings) are concentric rings in the secondary xylem of woody dicot stems formed due to seasonal variations in growth rate.
- In temperate regions, they result from differences in the size of xylem vessels formed during spring (larger vessels) and summer/fall (smaller vessels).
Step 2: Variation along stem height.
- At the base of the stem, the diameter of annual rings is larger due to more active cambial activity.
- As we move toward the top, the diameter of rings decreases because the cambium becomes less active and less xylem is produced.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence, annual rings decrease in size towards the top of the woody dicot stem.