Leaf or leaflet margin deflection

The leaf or leaflet margin (i.e. the extreme edge of the lamina) may be flat, or variously curved or rolled upwards or downwards (relative to a horizontal plane). Note that when working with dried material, the leaf or leaflet margin may be artificially deflected upwards or downwards as a result of the drying process, particularly amongst taxa with soft (herbaceous) leaves.

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Flat

The leaf or leaflet margin is not deflected upwards or downwards. Note that in cross-section, the leaf may be  u -shaped or  v -shaped. In this case, the entire leaf may be broadly curled or folded, although the margin is flat.

Recurved

The leaf or leaflet margin is deflected downward (i.e. towards the underside of the leaf).

Revolute

The leaf or leaflet margin is curled downwards and rolled inwards, forming (or starting to form) a tube.

Incurved

The leaf or leaflet margin is deflected upward (i.e. towards the upper surface of the leaf).

Involute

The leaf or leaflet margin is curled upwards and inwards, forming (or starting to form) a tube.