Question

Chrysanthemum differ from Jasmine, in the given aspects during vegetative propagation process I. Lateral branches arise from basal and underground parts of main stem II. Branches bent and grow downwards III. Branches grow obliquely upwards IV. Lateral branches arise from the base of the main axis and are aerial

• A. III and IV only
• B. I and III only
• C. II and IV only
• D. II and III only

Hint:

Jasmine propagates through suckers arising from underground basal portions, whereas Chrysanthemum propagates through stolons that arise from the base of the stem and grow aerially.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Vegetative propagation through stem modifications is a common method of natural multiplication in plants. Different plants utilize different types of subaerial stem modifications such as runners, stolons, suckers, and offsets. Jasmine propagates mainly through suckers, whereas Chrysanthemum propagates through stolons. The distinction between these structures is based on the origin and growth pattern of the lateral branches.

Step 1: Understand vegetative propagation in Jasmine. Jasmine propagates through suckers. A sucker is a lateral branch that arises from the basal underground portion of the main stem. Initially it grows horizontally beneath the soil and later emerges obliquely upward to form a new plant. Therefore: \[ \text{Jasmine} \rightarrow \text{Sucker} \]

Step 2: Understand vegetative propagation in Chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemum propagates through stolons. A stolon is a slender lateral branch arising from the base of the main axis. It grows above the ground and spreads horizontally or aerially before producing new plants. Therefore: \[ \text{Chrysanthemum} \rightarrow \text{Stolon} \]

Step 3: Evaluate the statements. Statement I describes suckers and therefore belongs to Jasmine. Hence it is not a distinguishing feature of Chrysanthemum. Statement II describes runners and is not characteristic of Chrysanthemum. Hence it is incorrect. Statement III states that branches grow obliquely upwards. This is a characteristic feature associated with the emergence of new plants through stolons. Hence it is correct. Statement IV states that lateral branches arise from the base of the main axis and are aerial. This is the defining feature of stolons. Hence it is correct.

Step 4: Select the correct combination. The statements associated with Chrysanthemum are: \[ III \text{ and } IV \] Therefore option (A) is correct.