Small, leaf-like appendages found at the base of a leaf petiole or stem node. Stipules can be temporary or persistent and vary greatly in size and shape depending on the plant species.
From Latin 'stipula' meaning 'stalk' or 'straw,' originally referring to the stubble left after harvest. The botanical meaning evolved in the 18th century as botanists began systematically describing leaf structures and their variations.
Many people never notice stipules, but they're actually crucial identification features! In roses, the stipules are fused to the petiole, while in violets, they're so large they look like extra leaves at the base of each 'real' leaf.
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