stipel

A small stipel is visible at the base of each leaflet.

Definition

Noun (Botany): A stipel is a small, secondary stipule, typically occurring in pairs at the base of the leaflets of a compound leaf. It is a diminutive and often scale-like or leaf-like appendage found on the leafstalk or petiole.

Usage Examples

• (A small stipule on a compound leaf.)
• (A structural characteristic used for classification.)

Advanced Usage

• "Stipel morphology": the study of the form and structure of stipels.
  • Stipel morphology varies greatly among different plant families. (The shape and arrangement of stipels differ across species.)

Variants and Related Words

• Stipule (n): a larger, paired appendage at the base of a leaf or leafstalk.
  • The stipule protects the developing leaf bud. (A protective structure on a plant.)
• Stipellate (adj): having or resembling stipels.
  • The stipellate leaf is common in the pea family. (Describes a leaf that bears stipels.)

Synonyms

• Secondary stipule: another term for stipel, emphasizing its subordinate position.
• Accessory stipule: a term used for stipels that are additional to the main stipules.

Related Idioms