LEAF MORPHOLOGY

MORPHOLOGY Morphology is a branch of biology

dealing with the study of the form and structure of organisms and their specific structural features.

This includes aspects of the outward appearance(shape,structure,colour,pattern), i.e.External morphology as well as the form and structure of the internal parts i.e. Internal morphology or Anatomy.

WHAT IS A LEAF???? Leaf is an organ of vascular plant and is the principal lateral appendage of the stem. The leaves and stem together form a shoot. Foliage is a mass noun that refers to leaves collectively.

LEAF MORpHOLOGY

A structurally complete leaf consists of a Petiole (leaf stalk), a Lamina(leaf blade) and Stipules(small structures located to either side of the base of the petiole)

The petiole mechanically links the leaf to the plant and provides the route for transfer of water and sugars to and from the leaf. The lamina is typically the location of the majority of photosynthesis.

MAJOR SECTIONS

OF THE LEAF

EPIDERMIS: The epidermis is the outer layer of cells covering the leaf. It is covered with a waxy cuticle which is impermeable to liquid water and water vapor and forms the boundary separating the plant’s inner cells from the external world.

EPIDERMAL CELLS

CROSS SECTION OF A LEAF