We can find all kinds of leaves on our planet. Just think of tiny pine needles, fern fronds, ivy vines or a big banana leaf. My friend Eric Roalson is a professor at Washington State University who is ...

An apple may not fall far from the tree, but for a leaf, it depends on its shape. Elm or apple leaves — oval and symmetrical, with few protruding lobes — fall quickly, making them likely to end up ...

Scientists have determined how key developmental genes influence growth of cells to produce such differences in leaf form. The researchers were able to make thale cress, which typically produces ...

Scientists identify protein that controls leaf growth and shape. In autumn, it is not only the colours that catch the eye, but also the different sizes and shapes of leaves. But what makes leaves of ...

The technique could be used on everything from flowers to cells to examine the factors that influence the shapes of plant parts. The story of a plant is etched in its leaves. A tree growing in a cold ...

Poison ivy can often be identified by its ‘mitten-shaped’ leaflets (pictured here) although its leaf shape can vary widely. Can you find the other poison ivy leaves in the picture? Poison ivy can ...

Watery adaptation: The structure and shape of lotus leaves growing on water (left) and above it (right) is influenced by mechanical forces. (Courtesy: F Xu/Fudan University) When the leaves of the ...

The story of a plant is etched in its leaves. A tree growing in a cold environment with plenty of water is more likely to have large leaves with many serrated teeth around the edges. But if the same ...