Petiole
Petiole
Petiole (/ˈpiːtɪoʊl/; from Latin petiolus, a small foot) is a term used in botany to refer to the stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem of a plant.
Etymology
The term petiole is derived from the Latin word petiolus, which means "a small foot". This is in reference to the petiole's function as a support structure for the leaf, similar to how a foot supports the body.
Function
The primary function of the petiole is to provide support for the leaf and to transport nutrients and water from the stem to the leaf. It also aids in photosynthesis by orienting the leaf towards the sun, and helps in the process of transpiration by allowing water to evaporate from the leaf surface.
Related Terms
- Leaf: The main photosynthetic organ of a plant, which is typically attached to the stem via the petiole.
- Stem: The main structural part of a plant, which supports the leaves and flowers and transports water, nutrients, and sugars.
- Transpiration: The process by which water is lost from a plant, primarily through the leaves.
See Also
- Phyllotaxis: The arrangement of leaves on a plant stem.
- Stipule: A leaf-like structure at the base of the petiole.
- Axil: The angle between the upper side of a leaf or stem and the supporting stem or branch.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Petiole
- Wikipedia's article - Petiole
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