Definition

The occurrence of different leaf shapes on the same plant, often due to changes in the environment.

Example

Heterophylly allows a single plant to adapt its leaves to varying conditions, such as light and water availability.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of heterophylly in plants?

Yeah, it's fascinating how some plants can change their leaves based on their environment.

Exactly! I think it's amazing how nature adapts like that.

Totally, it really shows how resilient plants can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterophylly is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "phyllon" (from Greek, meaning leaf). The term describes the condition of having different types of leaves on the same plant.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') leaves ('phyllon') on a plant — that's what heterophylly means.

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