Compound Leaf vs. Simple Leaf

Attribute	Compound Leaf	Simple Leaf
Definition	Leaf composed of multiple leaflets attached to a single petiole	Leaf with a single blade attached to the petiole
Leaflets	Multiple leaflets	Single blade
Veins	Usually palmately veined	Usually pinnately veined
Examples	Maple, Rose	Oak, Magnolia

Structure

Compound leaves are characterized by having multiple leaflets attached to a single leaf stalk or petiole. Each leaflet resembles a small leaf, but they are not individual leaves themselves. In contrast, simple leaves consist of a single leaf blade attached to the stem or petiole. The leaf blade of a simple leaf is undivided and does not have any leaflets.

Leaf Complexity

Compound leaves are considered more complex than simple leaves due to their multiple leaflets. This complexity allows compound leaves to have a greater surface area for photosynthesis compared to simple leaves. The division of the leaf into leaflets also provides compound leaves with a unique appearance and texture that can vary depending on the species.

Leaf Arrangement

Simple leaves are typically arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem, meaning that each leaf emerges from the stem at a different point. In contrast, compound leaves can have a variety of arrangements, including opposite (two leaves emerging from the same point on the stem) or whorled (three or more leaves emerging from the same point).

Leaf Veins

The veins of compound leaves are usually more complex than those of simple leaves. In compound leaves, the veins extend into each leaflet, providing support and transporting nutrients throughout the leaf. Simple leaves, on the other hand, have a single central vein, known as the midrib, from which smaller veins branch out to distribute nutrients and water.

Leaf Shapes

Simple leaves come in a wide range of shapes, including ovate, lanceolate, and elliptical. The shape of a simple leaf is determined by the overall outline of the leaf blade. In contrast, compound leaves can have different shapes based on the arrangement and division of the leaflets. Common shapes of compound leaves include palmate (leaflets radiating from a central point) and pinnate (leaflets arranged along a central axis).

Leaf Examples

Examples of plants with compound leaves include poison ivy, rose, and mimosa. These plants exhibit the characteristic multiple leaflets attached to a single petiole. On the other hand, plants with simple leaves include maple, oak, and magnolia. These plants have undivided leaf blades attached directly to the stem or petiole.