34 Type of Leaf

There are two basic forms of leaves that can be described considering the way the blade or lamina is divided. In a simple leaf, the blade is completely undivided. IN a compound leaf, the leeaf blade is completely divided.

Simple leaf: The shapes may be simple or quite complex, but the leaf blade is continuous.

Compound leaf: The blade is divided into two or more leaflets.

examples of simple and compound leaves

When examining a leaf, look for axillary buds- they will be above a petiole.

Both simple leaves and compound leaves have axillary buds above the petiole.

Simple leaves which appear compound…

Sometimes simple leaves look compound when they are not.

drawings of complex leaf shapes which appear compound

The examples are all simple leaves even though they have more complex shapes.

You should always look for buds above the petioles, and you may need to do this over several areas of the plant.

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