Leaf or leaflet venation

The arrangement of veins in a leaf or leaflet. The  prominence of venation is assessed in good light, by naked eye or using a X10 hand lens.

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Midrib and reticulum visible

The veins form a network (i.e. join one another at more than one point). Generally, the midrib (usually most prominent) and tertiary venation (reticulum) are clearly visible.

Pinnate

The midrib and lateral veins (secondary venation, branching from along the length of the mid-rib and terminating towards the leaf or leaflet margin) are clearly visible.

Sub-parallel

Three or more longitudinal veins (i.e. running from leaf base to leaf tip), of similar prominence, are clearly visible. This includes leaves that are distinctly striate, as in some Daviesia spp.

Palmate

Several major veins, of equal prominence, arising from the leaf base.

Midrib prominent only

Only the midrib is clearly visible (secondary and tertiary venation are indiscernible).

Venation not or scarcely visible

No venation is visible on either leaf surface (including leaf surfaces that are entirely obscured by hairs, or a strongly rolled leaf or leaflet margin).