Leaf Structure Illustration

Illustration Description

The illustration shows the major structural elements of a leaf. These are plant organs specialised for photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process of absorbing energy from sunlight and using it to produce food in the form of sugars. They also generate oxygen during photosynthesis and are major contributors to the cycle or carbon and oxygen in the environment.

The anatomical structure of the leaf:

Epidermis: It is the outermost layer and secretes a waxy substance called the cuticle. The cuticle helps retain water inside the leaf cells.

Mesophyll: This forms the middle layer of the leaf.

Vascular Tissue: The vascular tissue is actually found in the veins of the leaf