What is the term describing leaves or buds growing on the side of the main stem?

The term describing leaves or buds growing on the side of the main stem is "lateral." In botanical terminology, lateral structures are those that emerge from the sides of the main axis of the plant, such as lateral branches, leaves, or buds. This growth allows for an increase in the overall surface area of the plant, which enhances its ability to photosynthesize and can contribute to the plant’s overall shape and structure.

In contrast, the term "axillary" refers to buds or shoots that develop in the axil of a leaf, where the leaf petiole meets the stem, which is a more specific location. Meanwhile, "terminal" describes buds or branches located at the very tip of the stem, indicating growth upward, while "subterminal" refers to structures that are just below the terminal point. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying the growth patterns and structures of different plants, which is essential for corsage and boutonniere preparation where specific plant parts are utilized for aesthetics.