What is a "stem"?

A stem is a vital part of a plant's anatomy that supports leaves, flowers, and fruits, and serves as a channel for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant. Stems come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from woody and rigid to soft and flexible, depending on the plant species. They can grow above or below ground, and they often exhibit nodes, where leaves, branches, or flowers emerge, and internodes, the spaces between nodes. Stems play a crucial role in the growth, structure, and overall health of plants, enabling them to thrive in diverse environments and adapt to changing conditions.