Petiole: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฟ
petiole
[หpษtiหoสl ]
Definition
botanical term
A petiole is the stalk that attaches a leaf to the stem of a plant. It plays a vital role in supporting the leaf and facilitating the transportation of water and nutrients between the leaf and the plant. The structure can vary in length and thickness depending on the species of plant. In some plants, the petiole can be quite long, while in others, it may be almost nonexistent. Understanding the anatomy of petioles can aid in the study of plant biology and horticulture.
Synonyms
leaf stalk, leaf stem, stalk.
Examples of usage
- The petiole of the fern is slender and flexible.
- In maple trees, the petiole is important for leaf orientation.
- The color of the petiole can indicate the health of the plant.
- Some tropical plants have broad petioles to support large leaves.
Interesting Facts
Botany
- The petiole allows leaves to move to various angles, optimizing light capture for photosynthesis.
- In some plants, if the petiole is very long, it can help the leaf stay above other plants to get more sunlight.
Etymology
- The term originates from the Latin word 'petiolus,' which means 'little foot,' referencing its role in supporting the leaf.
- The concept of petioles has been recognized since ancient times, reflected in botanical texts by early naturalists.
Ecology
- Petiole size can vary dramatically among species, affecting water distribution and shading patterns in environments.
- Certain animals, like insects, may use petioles as pathways to access a leafโs nutrients.
Cultivation
- In agriculture, understanding petiole health can help farmers diagnose plant nutrients and overall plant vigor.
- Some gardeners advocate for pruning petioles to promote air circulation and reduce disease risk among plants.
Cultural Significance
- In Chinese medicine, the petiole of some plants is used in remedies, showcasing its importance beyond aesthetics.
- The connection between petioles and leaves is often used in artistic representations of nature, symbolizing connection and support.
Translations
Translations of the word "petiole" in other languages:
๐ต๐น pecรญolo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคชเฅเคเฅเคเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Blattstiel
๐ฎ๐ฉ petioles
๐บ๐ฆ ัะตัะตัะพะบ
๐ต๐ฑ ogonek
๐ฏ๐ต ่ๆ
๐ซ๐ท pรฉtiole
๐ช๐ธ peciolo
๐น๐ท sap
๐ฐ๐ท ์์๋ฃจ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุนูููุฏ
๐จ๐ฟ ลapรญk
๐ธ๐ฐ stopka
๐จ๐ณ ๅถๆ
๐ธ๐ฎ peclje
๐ฎ๐ธ blรถรฐstilk
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะถะฐะฟััะฐา ัะฐะฑะฐา
๐ฌ๐ช แขแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ yarpaq sapฤฑ
๐ฒ๐ฝ peciolo