Leaf Morphology

A leaf bud is a swelling on a plant that develops into a new leaf or shoot: 

  • Function

    A leaf bud is a precursor to new growth on a plant. It can develop into a shoot or flower depending on the type of plant and its needs. Buds are protected by tough scales made from modified leaves, which enable the tender structures to survive the winter.

  • Appearance

    Leaf buds are often plumper and more pointed than flower buds. 

  • Location

    Leaf buds can be found on both woody and herbaceous plants, usually at the axil of a leaf or at the tip of a stem. 

  • Formation

    Plants produce buds in late summer and early fall, but they remain small in the winter. They enlarge and become more visible in the spring as sap begins to flow. 

  • Identification

    Buds are often used to identify plants, especially woody plants in the winter when the leaves have fallen. 

Leaf stipules are small projections at the base of a leaf's petiole that serve a variety of functions, including:

 

 

  • Protection:

Stipules protect the bud and the next leaf as it grows in. For example, Tulip Poplars have stipules that protect the next leaf or bud.

 

  • Climbing:

Climbing plants use stipules as climbing tendrils.

 

  • Defense:

Spiny stipules protect the plant from animals.

 

 

  • Photosynthesis:

Foliaceous stipules can be used like leaves to make energy for the plant.

 

 

  • Moisture retention:

Stipules can help retain moisture in some plants.