Arrange plant developmental stages in a simple botanical timeline: Items: a. Seed b. Fruit c. Plant d. Stem e. Flower Choose the correct earliest-to-latest sequence.

Introduction / Context:
The question tests awareness of a simplified plant growth sequence from propagule to reproductive product.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• a = Seed germinates.
• c = Plant (seedling to vegetative body).
• d = Stem develops as major axis.
• e = Flower (reproductive organ).
• b = Fruit (post-fertilisation structure).

Concept / Approach:
Follow biological progression: germination → vegetative structures → reproduction → fruit set.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Fruit cannot precede flowers; stems precede flowers in the typical sequence.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Orders placing fruit or flower before seed/plant invert biology.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming leaves must be explicitly listed; here “stem” implies the vegetative build before flowering.

Final Answer:
a, c, d, e, b