spiny leaves
Sharp-edged plant parts
Spiny leaves are leaves armed with sharp, rigid points—a defense against herbivores.
Many desert plants have spiny leaves to deter animals in water-scarce environments where losing foliage is costly.
Holly, acacia, and various cacti bear spiny leaves.
In botany, the term distinguishes true spine-bearing leaves from those with softer prickles or thorns.
- hollySpiny-leaved winter shrub
- thistleSpiny flowering weed
- thornPointed plant projection
- evergreenRetains foliage year-round
- defenseProtection against harm
yucca · acacia · prickle · xerophyte · shrub · aloe · barb · agave · cactus · serration · trichome · gorse · crown of thorns · bristle · needle · succulent · desert plant · leathery