What are axillary buds?

The axillary bud is the bud located in the axil portion of the leaf. Buds are classified according to their position on the plant. In addition to axillary buds, apical, terminal and adventitious buds exist.

Plant buds are found where leaves attach to stems. Axillary buds are located at the upper angle formed where the leaf and stem are attached. Axillary buds are where branching in the shoot originates. Axillary buds may also be termed lateral buds. Buds are small swellings or protuberances on the stem or branch of a plant. They contain an undeveloped shoot, a leaf or a flower.