Because the woody texture of this tree (Wellingtonea gigantea) is exceedingly light and porous. It is, in fact, lighter than cork, and, therefore, requires less leaf-produce in its formation.
1277. Why have oak-trees an abundance of leaves?
Because their wood is so dense that they require a larger amount of the wood-forming secretion which is supplied by the leaves.
1278. Why are the trunks of trees round?
Because, generally speaking, the leaves are distributed upon branches around the trees in every direction. They consequently send down the wood-forming principle on all sides. When a trunk is unduly developed on one side, it may generally be traced to the unequal distribution of the branches.
1279. What are exogenous stems?
Exogenous stems are those that grow by the addition of wood on their outer surface, underneath the bark.
1280. What are endogenous stems?
Endogenous stems are those that grow inwardly, from the centre. Trees of this class, of which palms are the best example, are almost peculiar to tropical climates.
1281. Why do endogenous stems chiefly abound in tropical climates?