Plasticity of branching in some important tree species from arid north-western India

Branching pattern was analysed on lower and leader shoots in 6-year-old trees of nine species growing from arid north-western India. The bifurcation ratio of lower and leader shoots differed significantly (p < 0•05) only in Acacia catechu, A. nilotica, Melia azedarach and Morus alba. The angle of first order branches of lower and leader shoots differed significantly (p < 0•05) in all species except A. nilotica and Dalbergia sissoo. The branches of the lower crown were more horizontal, compared to the top of the crown due to inherent ability of trees to adjust to different light intensities, which ultimately helps to maximize energy capture and productivity. It is concluded that the variation in bifurcation ratio among species may reflect differences in their structural or developmental patterns of branches