Functional morphology, biomechanics and biomimetic potential of stem–branch connections in Dracaena reflexa and Freycinetia insignis

• Tom Masselter,
• Sandra Eckert and
• Thomas Speck

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2011, 2, 173–185, doi:10.3762/bjnano.2.21

• may not yet have reached a fully lignified state. This is indicated by staining experiments for lignin in which young axes of Dracaena reflexa (3–5 mm) are less stained than older axes (above 7 mm). Comparison with data of branchings of dicotyledonous trees No comparative data for maximal force or

• anatomical analysis were obtained via microtome sectioning and staining with the Fuchsin-Chrysoidin-Astrablue staining method according to Etzold [32] (Figure 2). Additionally, the three-dimensional arrangement and the course of the fibrous bundles was analysed by superimposing photographs of serial sections