The section of a plant stem between two nodes (points where leaves or branches attach). Internodes typically elongate as the plant grows, spacing out the nodes along the stem.
From Latin 'inter' (between) and 'nodus' (knot), literally meaning 'between the knots.' The term was adopted in botany during the 17th century as scientists developed precise vocabulary for describing plant architecture.
Internodes are like nature's adjustable spacers, growing longer or shorter depending on light conditions to optimize leaf placement! In deep shade, plants often develop extremely long internodes to quickly reach brighter light, creating the characteristic 'leggy' appearance of shade-grown seedlings.
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