Question

Give examples of vegetative propagation in leaves.

Answer 1

Reproduction is a vital process under various life processes. It ensures the continuation of generations. Vegetative propagation is a type of reproduction that comes under the asexual type. It involves only one parent. Plants belonging to Crassulaceae reproduce employing vegetative propagation.

Complete answer: Vegetative propagation is a means of reproduction that comes under the category of asexual reproduction. Asexual reproduction is a process in which an organism reproduces without the contribution of another organism. This type of reproduction involves only one parent. No sexually variant gametes are produced. Vegetative propagation involves reproduction through the germination of a bud detached from the parent. In plants, vegetative propagation occurs by various plant parts ranging from roots to stems. Vegetative propagation in leaves involves potential buds that are formed over the leaf surface, detaches from it at some point and grows into new plants whenever favourable conditions arrive. This type of reproduction produces clones of the parent plant. Vegetative propagation is used by various farmers for cultivation practices. It is a fast and reliable means of reproduction. Plants like Begonia and Bryophyllum or ‘mother of thousands’ plants show vegetative propagation through leaves. The margin of leaves of these plants bears some buds. These buds are the reproductive structure and when it falls on the ground, it grows into a new individual plant. The buds fall when they start growing to become small plantlets with roots initiating from their base of attachment.
Begonia is used as ornamental plants as they have beautiful decorative flowers. So, the examples of vegetative propagation by leaves are Begonia and Bryophyllum.

Note: Both Begonia and Bryophyllum plants have various applications. The Begonia consists of around 1,800 different species. All of these are used in decorative arrangements. The Bryophyllum on the other hand is used in the preparation of various medicines. It secretes an important chemical compound that is toxic but it is used in medicine preparation. This is called daigremontianin.