Purdue Arboretum botanical terminology reference and learning database.
Pinnate Having parts arranged like a feather, symmetrically on either side of a central rib - often used to describe compound leaves. Did you know? Ash, walnut, hickory, and rose leaves are pinnate, with leaflets arranged along a central stalk.
Serrate With a saw-toothed edge. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
Simple Not divided into leaflets. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
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.
Stipule Growths attached to the base of a leaf stalk, usually one at each side, often ear-like
Subcordate Almost heart-shaped or cordate. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
Trifoliate Having compound leaves composed of 3 leaflets. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification.
Venation Pattern of veins. Botanists use this feature to describe leaf shape, surface, edge, or arrangement, which helps with plant identification. Did you know? Leaf venation patterns help separate monocots, which often have parallel veins, from dicots, which usually have branching veins.
Ventral On the inward or front surface, as in the upper surface of a leaf.
Wing A thin, flat margin bordering or extending from a structure
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