Stem joints (5)
I believe the answer is:
nodes
'stem joints' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for nodes that I've seen before include "Swellings or knotty masses" , "Bulges or swellings" , "Bumps or lumps" , "Knots" , "Small knob-like swellings" .)