Phyllotactic Patterns

Phyllotactic patterns describe the recurring arrangements of leaves, seeds, or other plant structures around a stem or branch. These patterns often follow mathematical rules, such as Fibonacci sequences, resulting in efficient packing and optimal exposure to sunlight or air. For example, sunflower seeds and pine cone scales exhibit spiral patterns that maximize space use and growth efficiency. Understanding these patterns reveals how plants evolve to optimize resources and structural stability through natural geometric and mathematical principles.