Question: Most of our phlox leaves have a distinctive marginal vein and grow in opposite sets of two. Each set is …
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Question
Most of our phlox leaves have a distinctive marginal vein and grow in opposite sets of two. Each set is rotated 90 degrees from its neighbors above and below on the stem (decussate). Recently I observed what looks like the identical plant growing in the same group, but with three leaves per node instead of two. These sets of three are also rotated relative to each other, but by 60 degrees. I also have one plant with single leaves arranged alternately. Is this common? Mark M, Singers Glen, VA
Answer
Dear mminton, good afternoon. You are photographing more than one species of plant. Note that in your first image the species has whorled leaves with three leaves at each node. IN the other images where leaf arrangement can be observed, the leaves are alternate (only one leaf per node), though the leaves are crowded so that they superficially look as if they are whorled. You will find that when these species flower, they will be different and I can help you more then. Best wishes.
