Stipulas

Stipulas

The term stipulas, in botany, we mean a small appendix, of various aspects, which is inserted at the base of the leaf of numerous higher plants.
The stipules can develop a lot, so as to perform the function of chlorophyll photosynthesis or they can undergo metamorphosis transforming into thorns, probably with a defensive function, as in the case of black locust.
With reference to their morphologies and function, there are various types of stipules:
– foliar, as in the case of peas and other legumes (Fabaceae);
– scaly, as in the case of beech;
– spinified, as, in fact, in the case of black locust;
– tendril, as in the genus Smilax;
– nectariferous, as in the case of fava beans;
– reduced to a small tubercle.
The stipules can be free from the stalk and then often appear inserted on the caule, or welded with it (s. Adnate, as in roses).

In certain cases the stipules of a leaf are welded into a sheet that appears opposite to the leaf or is located in correspondence with the axilla of the leaf; or also two stipules of two different leaves of the same node are welded (in many Rubiaceae) and in this case they are called interpicciular stipules; another modification of the stipulation is ochrea (which is a sheath that surrounds the internode of the stem or branch) as in the Polygonaceae.
With reference to their biological life, the stipulations are defined:
– in caduche (as in most trees);
– and in persistent (geraniums, locust).
The function of the stipules is variable but in general it covers the role of protecting the leaf buds against possible environmental offenses during the growth due to the distension of the leaf blade.
By the term stipoletta we mean the small expansion of the leaf aspect at the base of each leaf segment of some compound leaves, as in the case of legumes.
From the histological point of view, the stipulation derives from the contact area between the basal and apical part of the leaf draft and they are not always present.