Definition

Relating to the movement or development of substances from the top part of a plant or organ down toward the bottom part.

Example

In botany, basipetal growth refers to the way certain hormones move from the top of the plant down to the roots.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants grow in a basipetal manner?

Really? How does that work?

It means they develop from the top down towards the base.

That’s interesting! I had no idea plants could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Basipetal is formed from "basi-" (from Greek "basis", meaning base or bottom) and "petal" (from Greek "petalon", meaning leaf or part of a flower). The word describes growth or movement towards the base of a plant or flower.

Memory Tip

Think of 'base' ('basi-') and 'leaf' ('petalon') to remember that 'basipetal' refers to growth towards the base of a plant.

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