Sites of photoperception in white clover

Abstract

Abstract White clover ( Trifolium repens ) grows both horizontally, via the stolon, and vertically, via the petiole, through its environment. Comparing the effects of clear and opaque paint allowed the localization of two photoperceptive sites. Stolon growth (horizontal) was altered by the radiation environmental the node, and petiole growth (vertical) by radiation perceived at the petiole tip. Photoperception these two sites provides a mechanism by which the plant can direct its growth to exploit its environment maximally.