Leaf Margins

One of the final aspects of a leaf that we can use to identify a plant is the leaf margin. The leaf margin refers to the structure or appearance of the edge of the leaf. Entire leaf margins are the simplest leaf margin as the leaf edge is smooth with no lobes or teeth. There are many different types of leaf margins, but some of the most common include lobed, serrate, incised, and dentate. Lobes on leaves are similar to big teeth that extend more than 1/4 of the way to the midvein. Serrated leaf edges are sharp and saw-like (think serrated knife). Incised leaf margins are similar to lobes but have deep, irregular teeth rather than rounded edges. Finally, the dentate leaf margin has square or rectangular teeth.

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Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu