Leaf variation – Holly (and Ivy).
by Lewis, 17 March, 2011, 5 comments
Holly leaves are prickly. But the leaves of the lower twigs and branches are said to have more prickles than the those higher up the tree. Ivy (Hedera) has lobed leaves but entire leaves can be found on the projecting branches (which bear flowers and fruits) – again often high up and in the light.
The range in variation in any species can be considerable – thinking about holly, their leaves may vary in :
The number of spines on a leaf
The number of spines on each side of the leaf
The length of the leaf (do longer leaves have more spines?) Read more...
