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Pinnate: Leaf with veins, lobes, leaflets, or dissections arising along a central elongate axis.* These beech leaves (Fagus sylvatica) have a pinnate vein pattern. *Pell, S.K., Angell, B. (2016). A botanist’s …

Palmatifid: Of a leaf shape which is shaped like a hand but with the leaf divisions stopping half-way down the ‘fingers.’* The palmatifid leaves of this sweetgum tree (Liquidambar styraciflua) are …

Tussock: A tuft or clump of grasses or sedges.* Tussocks of grasses blowing in the breeze are a mainstay of the autumn garden. *Harris, J.G., Harris, M.W. (2001). Plant identification terminology: …

Pyriform: Shaped like a pear.* Although pears are the most obvious example, pyriform can be used to refer to any pear-shaped fruit, such as pear-shaped tomatoes. *Pell, S.K., Angell, B. …

Limbate: Bordered, as in a leaf or flower in which one colour forms an edging or margin around another.* Many variegated plants follow this two-tone pattern. Pictured above are hosta …

Orthostichous: With parts arranged in straight ranks or rows.* The individual flowers in the flowering spikes of this obedient plant (Physostegia) are arranged in straight, vertical lines up the flower …

Matutinal: Functioning in the morning, as in flowers which open in the morning.* Morning glories get their name because their flowers open in early morning. *Harris, J.G., Harris, M.W. (2001). …

Vespertine: Opening, or functioning, in the evening.* Datura flowers tend to open at dusk – a great choice for an evening garden! *Harris, J.G., Harris, M.W. (2001). Plant identification terminology: An …

Divaricate: Widely spreading, usually in reference to branching.* Plants with a divaricating growth habit often appear very ‘full’ as their branches spread widely and intersect with one another. This gorgeous Caryopteris divaricata …