What term refers to the part of a plant capable of growing into a new plant?

The term that refers to the part of a plant capable of growing into a new plant is "propagule." A propagule is any structure that can develop into a new organism, capable of growing into an independent plant. This includes seeds, bulbs, cuttings, and other forms of vegetative reproduction.

While seeds and bulbs are often thought of in the context of plant propagation, they represent specific types of propagules. Seeds are the most commonly recognized form of propagule, as they are the product of sexual reproduction in plants. Bulbs are a form of asexual reproduction that can give rise to new plants but are a subtype of propagule. Shoots can also develop into new plants, but they are typically just the early growth of a plant rather than a distinct reproductive unit.

Understanding this term is crucial for those studying plant biology and horticulture, as it encompasses a broader range of structures involved in the life cycle and propagation of plants.