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Tree Biology & Anatomy

Apical Meristem

Definition

The apical meristem is the growing point at the tip of a shoot or root that produces new tissue. Apical dominance is the phenomenon where the main central stem grows more strongly than its side branches, giving the tree its characteristic upward shape.

In Central Texas

Live oaks, post oaks, cedar elms, pecans, and Monterrey oaks are among the most common apical-meristem-driven trees in Central Texas landscapes.

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