What is the main purpose of a stolon?

The primary purpose of a stolon is propagation. Stolons are specialized stems that grow horizontally along the ground or just above it, allowing for the development of new shoots and roots at the nodes. This method of asexual reproduction enables plants to spread and colonize new areas effectively. As the stolon grows, it can give rise to new plants that are genetically identical to the parent, ensuring the continuation of the plant's lineage in various environments.

While photosynthesis is vital for many plant structures, and support may be a function of some stems, neither of these captures the essential role of a stolon. Water storage can occur in various parts of a plant, but it is not a characteristic feature of stolons specifically. The lateral growth and ability to produce new plants through stolons are what predominantly underscore their importance in plant reproductive strategies.