Twigs

A distinguishing characteristic of twigs is the opposite or alternate arrangement of leaves and assorted buds. Other twig characteristics include the size and shape of the bud, leaf and bud scars, presence of lenticels, pith formation, color, and odor. Sometimes, thorns, corky ridges, pubescence, or spines also appear. For example, what identifies the black walnut is its smooth, stout twigs; a light brown chambered pith; fuzzy buds; large leaf scars; and bundle scars in groups of three. Figure 7-2 illustrates some of the common characteristics of twigs.

Figure 7-2. Twig and Bud Characteristics