Sympodial Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
Orchids with sympodial growth have a specialized lateral growth pattern in which the terminal bud dies. The growth continues by development of new shoots sprouting from or next to the ones of previous year (such as in the genus Cattleya or Cymbidium).The base of the stem of sympodial epiphytes, or in some species essentially the entire stem, may be thickened to form what is called a pseudobulb. These contain food reserves for drier periods. At their end appear one or two leafs, but sometimes four.
Sympodial terrestrials, such as Orchis or Ophrys, have two pseudobulbs between the roots. These act as their food reserve for wintery periods. The present plant came from the pseudobulb that is dried out. The other one is in good condition and will give the leaves and stems next spring.
In warm and humid climates, the terrestrial orchids don’t need pseudobulbs or even stems.
See also : monopodial
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