Modified Leaf of a Plant

Leaves of plants come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and are adapted for a variety of purposes. Plants have developed over generations and the leaves have evolved to suit their environment better. For example, many monocots, such as grasses, have long leaves without petioles. Another modified leaf called a tendril helps plants climb, since they have tips which coil around a stem. Spines on a cactus are modified leaves which protect the plant from animals. Some dicots, such as the celery pictured here, have huge petioles, which are the stalks of the celery we eat. These enormous petioles store food and contain a lot of water.