Define a Stem

Stem is a the ascending axis of a plant which develops from the hypocotyl and plumule of the embryo-axis. The stem grows in the direction of air and sunlight and against the direction of soil, water and gravitational force. The stem bears nodes, internodes, leaves, terminal and axillary buds as vegetative organs and bears flowers and fruits in the reproductive season.
Normal Functions of Stem
(1) To bear leaves and flowers and to arrange them properly
(2) To conduct water and dissolved minerals salts towards leaves and
(3) To translocate the organic food