leaves
this collage is only available as a 10x10 print.
shout out to my comrade, Valerie Jones, for allowing me to use her photo here.
this collage is only available as a 10x10 print.
shout out to my comrade, Valerie Jones, for allowing me to use her photo here.
this collage is only available as a 10x10 print.
shout out to my comrade, Valerie Jones, for allowing me to use her photo here.
Locating Leaf Likenesses: Logical Lessons
To effectively identify leaves, focus on a few key features: leaf shape, margin, arrangement on the stem, and venation. Consider the leaf's size, texture, and color, and whether it's simple or compound.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Leaf Shape
Simple vs. Compound: Is the leaf a single, undivided blade (simple) or divided into multiple leaflets (compound)?
General Shapes: Look for common shapes like oval, round, lance-shaped, or elliptic
Lobes: Are there curved or rounded projections (lobes) on the leaf?
Leaf Margin
Smooth, Toothed, or Lobed: Are the edges of the leaf smooth, toothed, lobed, incised, or wavy?
Entire: Smooth edges are called entire
Leaf Arrangement
Opposite vs. Alternate: Are leaves paired directly across from each other (opposite) or staggered along the stem (alternate)?
Spiral: Some leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern
Venation
Parallel vs. Net-like: Are the veins parallel or do they form a network?
Palmate Venation: Veins radiate outwards from the petiole (leaf stalk) like fingers
Other Features
Size and Thickness: Note the leaf's size and whether it's delicate or leathery
Texture: Is it firm, waxy, shiny, thick, or limp?
Color: Observe the color variation, including the underside of the leaf
Fragrance: Does the leaf have a distinct smell when crushed or rubbed?
Leaf Arrangement on Stem: Note how the leaves are attached to the stem (e.g., alternate, opposite, whorled).
Buds: Observe the arrangement of buds on twigs, especially in winter for deciduous trees
Leaflet Arrangement (for compound leaves): How are the leaflets arranged on the central stalk?
Tips for Identification
Use Field Guides or Online Resources: Websites like the one by Oregon State University or Imperial College London offer detailed guides and identification keys
Take Photos: Capture clear photos of the leaves for reference
Consider Your Location: The plants in your area will have a limited range of leaf characteristics
Look at the Whole Plant: Consider the overall plant structure and other features like flowers, fruit, and bark
Use Mobile Apps: Apps like picturethis (which I use and do recommend) can help you identify plants by taking a picture
