Can trees be typified by how they arrange their branches? (e.g. Dogwood and tupelo branches seem layered) ?

Question

Can trees be typified by how they arrange their branches? (e.g. Dogwood and tupelo branches seem layered) ?

Answer 1

Yes, the term for the general shape of a tree is "habit."  Using habit, however, is not useful for systematics although it is useful for landscaping.

http://www.jstor.org/pss/2427914 (not whole article but a start)

http://www.bbg.org/gar2/topics/botany/pa...