What is the term for trees with upright growth and a strong, central leader?

The term that describes trees with upright growth and a strong, central leader is excurrent growth. This growth form is characterized by a single dominant stem that extends upward, allowing the tree to develop a straight trunk with branches that are generally arranged in a whorl pattern around the trunk. This structure not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the tree, making it appear more majestic and robust, but it also optimizes light capture and reduces competition among branches, enhancing the tree's overall health and growth.

In contrast, decurrent growth involves a more spreading growth habit, where the tree's branches tend to develop laterally rather than concentrated around a single leader. Horizontal growth is a less common term and generally does not apply to trees with a strong vertical leader. Chaotic growth suggests an irregular branching pattern that does not support the notion of a well-defined central leader, further differentiating it from excurrent growth. Thus, the defining characteristic of excurrent growth is its emphasis on vertical dominance through a strong central leader.