InfoSAWIT, MEDAN – Researcher at the Center for Palm Oil Research (PPKS), Djend Muhayat, explained the importance of understanding the leaf arrangement pattern or phyllotaxy on oil palm plants, as it is directly related to the productivity of fresh fruit bunches (TBS).

In his explanation, Djend revealed that the arrangement of fronds on palm trees is arranged in a spiral form—which can be directed to the left (left spiral) or to the right (right spiral). “The way to see the spiral direction is from the base of the trunk. If the frond direction from bottom to left, it is a left spiral, and vice versa if to the right, it is called a right spiral,” he said as quoted by InfoSAWIT from PPKS TV, Tuesday (28/10/2025).

Furthermore, Djend explained the way to determine the first frond, which is the frond that has fully opened and its leaflets are already separated. From this first frond, the counting of fronds is done gradually following the spiral pattern.

“In one palm spiral, there are usually eight fronds. So, after the first frond, add eight, we find the 9th frond, then the 17th, 25th, 33rd, and so on,” he said.

According to him, the normal number of fronds on palm plants aged 3 to 8 years ranges from 48 to 56 fronds. This number is an important indicator for researchers and farmers to assess the physiological condition of the plants.

“Each frond contributes to productivity, because leaves play a direct role in the photosynthesis process. So, understanding about spirals and the number of fronds is very important to ensure plants grow optimally,” said Djend.

He also added that although in some varieties there are differences in the number of fronds per spiral—some reaching 12 to 13—however, the Dura Deli variety, which is the most commonly used in Indonesia, generally has a spiral pattern with eight fronds.

“So don't get confused counting. Because from each leaf, there is energy produced for the next bunch,” concluded Djend. (T2)