- achene
A small, dry, indehiscent fruit containing a single seed that does not fuse with the fruit wall. It is dispersed as a whole unit, often by wind or animals.
- broadleaf
A type of foliage with a wide, flat blade that provides a large surface area for light capture and gas exchange, common in deciduous and many evergreen trees.
- needle
A slender, elongated form of foliage found in many conifers, characterised by small surface area, thick cuticle, and adaptations for reducing water loss.
- petiole
The stalk that attaches a leaf blade to the stem, providing structural support and serving as a conduit for water, nutrients, and photosynthates.
- phenology
The study of recurring biological events such as leaf emergence, flowering, fruiting, and leaf fall, and how these timings relate to seasonal or climatic factors.
- senescence
The ageing process in plants whereby cells, tissues, or organs undergo controlled decline, often involving nutrient recycling and programmed cell death.
- stomata
Microscopic pores in the epidermis of leaves and stems that regulate gas exchange by allowing carbon dioxide in and releasing oxygen and water vapour.