Excurrent branching: Tree growth in which the main axis continues to the top of the tree from which smaller, lateral branches arise (as in conifers).*
*Burns, Russell M. and Barbara H. Honkala, tech. coords. Silvics of North America, vol 2. Hardwoods ; Glossary. Agriculture handbook no.654. Washington, D.C. : U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, 1990. p.835-845.