While “dendril” is sometimes used, this article focuses on plant tendrils, the specialized structures many climbing plants use to ascend and secure themselves. Understanding these plant parts provides insight into how vining plants thrive.
What Are Tendrils
Tendrils are slender, thread-like appendages that climbing plants use for support and attachment. These specialized organs can originate from modified stems, leaves, or even leaf petioles. Unlike roots, which anchor plants in the soil, or typical stems and leaves, tendrils are designed for grasping and twining. They are typically green and can perform photosynthesis, contributing to the plant’s energy production.
Tendrils often appear wiry or whiplike as they extend into the air, searching for something to grasp. They are a defining characteristic of many vining plants, allowing them to climb by coiling around suitable objects rather than developing rigid, self-supporting stems.
How Tendrils Function
The primary mechanism behind how tendrils work is thigmotropism, a plant’s growth response to touch. When a tendril makes contact with a solid surface, cells on the side opposite the point of contact grow more rapidly. This differential growth causes the tendril to curve and coil around the object.
As contact is maintained, the tendril’s growth becomes permanent, forming tight, helical coils that firmly secure the plant. This helical structure acts like a spring, providing strong anchorage and flexibility, allowing the plant to withstand wind and other environmental stresses. Over time, the tendril can develop stronger mechanical tissues, cementing its grip and providing robust support.
Plants With Tendrils
Many common garden plants and agricultural crops utilize tendrils for climbing. For instance, garden peas (Pisum sativum) develop tendrils from modified terminal leaflets, and sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) also feature leaf tendrils.
Grapes (Vitis vinifera) are known for their stem tendrils, which allow the vine to climb extensively. Members of the squash and melon family (Cucurbitaceae), including cucumbers (Cucumis sativum), also possess stem tendrils. Passionflowers (Passiflora species) employ stem tendrils for support.
Supporting Tendril-Bearing Plants
Providing suitable support structures is important for cultivating tendril-bearing plants, allowing them to grow vertically and access adequate sunlight. Trellises are a popular choice, offering a grid-like framework for tendrils to grip and ascend. Netting provides numerous attachment points for the tendrils of vining crops like peas and cucumbers.
Stakes can be effective, especially for younger plants, serving as initial guides. Fences, arbors, and pergolas offer robust support options for larger, more established tendril climbers like grapevines. When installing supports, place them before the plant grows too tall, and gently guide the tendrils towards the structure to encourage proper climbing.