Glossary: Leaf morphology

Purdue Arboretum botanical terminology reference and learning database.

368 Botanical Definitions 10 Categories A–Z Alphabetical Index Illustrated Growth Forms
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Leaf morphology

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Illustrated Growth Forms & Tree Silhouettes

Compare visual architectures: fastigiate, columnar, weeping, spreading, and more.

Fastigiate Columnar Pendulous / Weeping
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Showing 5 definitions
Synonyms: Biserrate, Biserrates, saw toothed, saw-toothed, Serrates, Serrulate, Serrulates, toothed edge

Serrate With a saw-toothed edge. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.

Synonyms: Simples

Simple Not divided into leaflets. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.

Synonyms: Spathulate, spathulate, Spathulates, Spatulates

Spatulate Shaped like a spatula, with a rounded tapering blade. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.

Synonyms: Subcordates

Subcordate Almost heart-shaped or cordate. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.

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