Introduction to Plant Leaves
· A leaf is a plant organ that is found above the ground and is specialized for photosynthesis
· The leaf is typically flat and thin
· Functions of the leaf
§ Provides for transpiration and guttation
§ Storage of food and water
· The leaf consists of a petiole, a lamina (or the leaf blade), and stipules
§ Petiole
§ Attaches the leaf to the stem
§ Some leaves are directly attached to the stem without a petiole
§ The lamina
§ Is flat and offers surface for trapping sunlight for photosynthesis
References
Evans, W. C. (2009). Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy. India: Reed Elsevier Limited.
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