Purdue Arboretum botanical terminology reference and learning database.
Frond The leaf of a fern or palm. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification. Did you know? Fern fronds unroll from fiddleheads, coiled young fronds that expand as they mature.
Juvenile An early stage of plant growth, sometimes displaying a leaf form or a habit that is not characteristic of the mature plant
Leaflet A small sub-leaf" that together with others forms a single compound leaf"
Lobe A projecting portion or segment, usually referring to a leaf Did you know? Maple and oak leaves are easy to recognize partly because of their distinctive lobes and sinuses.
Margin Edge, usually referring to a leaf. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
Midrib Midrib is a botanical term used to describe a plant structure, growth form, position, surface feature, or reproductive feature.
Palmate Having leaflets or other parts radiating from a common point, like outstretched fingers from a palm. Did you know? Maple leaves are palmate, with lobes spreading from one point like fingers from a hand.
Perfoliate Describes a leaf that completely surrounds the stem. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
Petiole Leaf-stalk. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification. Did you know? The petiole helps position the leaf blade so it can capture light efficiently without shading nearby leaves.
Pinna A single leaflet of a pinnately divided (feather-like) leaf. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
The Purdue Arboretum is a collaboration between the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture and Administrative Operations