hypocotyl
Quick Summary
The hypocotyl is the part of a plant embryo or seedling located below the cotyledons (seed leaves). During germination, the hypocotyl is the embryonic stem that elongates, often raising the cotyledons above the ground in a process called epigeal germination. In some cases, the cotyledons may develop chlorophyll and become photosynthetic, while in others, they shrink and die after transferring stored nutrients to the developing seedling. The hypocotyl's growth helps the young shoot emerge from the seed and orient itself towards light.1234
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
angiospermStems…a transition region called the hypocotyl. In the developing embryo, the hypocotyl is the embryonic axis that bears the seedling leaves (cotyledons).
Read More…a transition region called the hypocotyl. In the developing embryo, the hypocotyl is the embryonic axis that bears the seedling leaves (cotyledons).
Read More
plant developmentOrigin of the primary organs…other four will form the hypocotyl, the part of the embryo between the cotyledons and the primary root (radicle). The hypophysis will give rise to the radicle and the root cap; the cells of the suspensor will degenerate as the embryo matures.
Read More…other four will form the hypocotyl, the part of the embryo between the cotyledons and the primary root (radicle). The hypophysis will give rise to the radicle and the root cap; the cells of the suspensor will degenerate as the embryo matures.
Read More