Hastate leaves are named after their unique shape that looks like a spearhead. They have a triangular shape with the two basal lobes pointing outward or backward, making them resemble an arrowhead or spear. This type of leaf is common in a wide range of plants, including herbs, shrubs, and trees.
Characteristics of Hastate Leaves
The most distinguished feature of hastate leaves is their shape. They have a deep cleft at the base, which separates the two basal lobes. The basal lobes are usually pointed, and they extend outward or backward from the midrib. The upper part of the leaf is typically smooth while the lower surface may be hairy. The leaf margin is often smooth, but some species may have serrations or teeth on the edges.
Examples of Plants that have Hastate Leaves
Hastate leaves are found in a wide range of plants, including some of the most common ones. Some examples include:
1. Arrowhead Plant: Also known as Syngonium podophyllum, this is a popular houseplant known for its beautiful foliage. The leaves are hastate in shape, with the basal lobes pointing outwards.
2. Elephant Ear: Elephant ear (Colocasia esculenta) is a tropical plant that has large, heart-shaped hastate leaves. The leaves can grow up to 3 feet long, and they are usually green or purple in color.
3. Bulbous Buttercup: Bulbous buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus) is a wildflower that has bright yellow hastate leaves. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and produces small yellow flowers in the summer.
4. Shield Fern: Shield fern (Dryopteris affinis) is a fern that has dark green, glossy hastate leaves. The leaves grow up to 4 feet tall and arch over gracefully.
Conclusion
Hastate leaves are a common sight in the plant kingdom and offer a unique and beautiful look to plants. The triangular shape and pointed lobes make them stand out from other types of leaves. Understanding hastate leaves and their characteristics can help in identifying plants and appreciating their beauty.#16#