The leaf margin of the Aesculus californica, commonly known as the California buckeye, is toothed.
Understanding the Leaves of California Buckeye
The Aesculus californica is characterized by its distinctive leaves, which are a key identifying feature of the plant. Unlike simple leaves, the California buckeye has palmately compound leaves, meaning multiple leaflets radiate from a single point at the end of the petiole, resembling the palm of a hand.
Here are some key characteristics of the California buckeye's leaves:
- Leaf Type: Palmately compound
- Leaflet Count: Typically five, though occasionally seven leaflets are observed.
- Leaflet Size: Individual leaflets range from 6 to 17 cm (2.4 to 6.3 inches) in length.
- Petiole: The leaves feature a long petiole, the stalk that attaches the leaf blade to the stem.
Leaflet Margin Detail
The term "leaf margin" refers to the edge of the leaf blade. For the California buckeye, the leaf margin of the leaflets is toothed. This means the edges are serrated with small, tooth-like indentations, which can vary in shape and size depending on the specific species and maturity of the leaf.
For clarity, here's a summary of the California buckeye's leaf features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Leaf Structure | Palmately compound |
| Leaflet Number | Five (rarely seven) |
| Leaflet Length | 6 - 17 cm (2.4 - 6.3 in) |
| Petiole | Long |
| Leaf Margin | Toothed |
