Bipinnate

/baɪˈpɪneɪt/ adjective

Definition

Describing a leaf or structure that is feathered or branched twice—with smaller branches coming off larger branches in a feather-like pattern.

Etymology

From 'bi-' (twice) and 'pinnate' (from Latin 'pinna,' feather). Used in botany since the 18th century to describe leaf arrangements.

Kelly Says

A bipinnate leaf like those on mimosa or acacia trees is essentially a 'feather made of feathers'—each small leaflet sits on a branch, and those branches sit on a main stem, creating an intricate, delicate appearance.

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