Analyse du système ramifié de Phaseolus vulgaris: particularités du gradient morphologique gemmaire
An analysis of the branching pattern in a dwarf so-called determinate variety of Phaseolus vulgaris L. has been attempted. A distinctive organogenetic gradient displayed by the axillary buds is described. The number of leafy nodes on the first-order axillary branch, before its termination by a double raceme, decreases as its level of insertion on the main stem increases. This modification in the axillary organogenesis culminates in the appearance of the simple axillary raceme, apparently coinciding with the bracteal transformation at the next axil on main stem. However, not all the stages in the reduction of axillary structures were observed. These facts are discussed in relation to the concepts of comparative isomorphic development of main stems and first-order axes, and certain correlations regulating cauline morphogenesis.