The Daphniphyllum teijsmannii captivates with its glossy, deep green leaves flushed with glaucous on the underside, accented by reddish petioles

in leaf •  6 months ago 

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Daphniphyllum teijsmannii, also known as the hime yuzuriha in its native Japan, is a stunning evergreen tree prized for its elegant and captivating foliage. Here's a closer look at its leaves:

  • Shape and Size: The leaves of Daphniphyllum teijsmannii are a true focal point. They are arranged alternately on the branches, often clustered around new growth. Their shape falls into three categories: narrowly oblong, elliptic, or oblanceolate. Imagine a long oval with a slightly pointed tip (acute or acuminate) at the end, sometimes slightly wider at the tip (oblanceolate). These leaves can range from 6 to 15 centimeters in length, offering a substantial presence on the branches.

  • Texture and Color: Daphniphyllum teijsmannii boasts truly magnificent leaves. They are leathery to the touch, conveying a sense of strength and resilience. The upper surface is the star of the show, adorned with a deep, lustrous green that shimmers in the sunlight. This glossy finish creates a breathtaking contrast with the lower surface, which is a beautiful glaucous, a fancy way of saying a bluish-green or grayish-green with a waxy coating.

  • Veins and Edges: The intricate details on the leaves add to their visual interest. The midrib runs prominently down the center, acting as the backbone for the network of secondary veins. These secondary veins, typically 7 to 15 on each side of the midrib, are less conspicuous but contribute to the overall structure. The edges of the leaves are entire, meaning they have smooth margins without any teeth or lobes. Interestingly, the margins may be slightly revolute, which means they curl under slightly, adding a subtle textural element.

  • Petioles: Connecting the stunning leaves to the branches are the petioles, the leaf stalks. These are no mere afterthoughts! Daphniphyllum teijsmannii boasts reddish petioles, ranging from 2 to 5 centimeters long. This vibrant red color adds a delightful pop of color, further enhancing the visual appeal of the foliage.

In conclusion, the leaves of Daphniphyllum teijsmannii are a captivating blend of form and function. Their size, texture, color variations, and reddish petioles all come together to create a foliage display that is not only beautiful but also speaks to the plant's adaptability and resilience.

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