Having a small, abrupt point or tip at the apex, especially describing the shape of leaves, petals, or other plant parts.
From apicula (small tip) + Latin -atus (having the quality of). This botanical descriptor became standard in plant taxonomy during the 19th century.
When botanists describe a leaf as apiculate, they're saying it has that satisfying little point at the end—and this specific shape can help identify entire plant species!
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