Leaf Scar

What Does Leaf Scar Mean?

A leaf scar is the mark left on a plant after the leaf has fallen in autumn. The leaf scar of each tree species is unique and can be used to identify the tree in winter.

Maximum Yield Explains Leaf Scar

A leaf is a living portion of a plant that is attached by a petiole. When a leaf ages, dies, and subsequently falls off, there is an open wound left where the petiole attached to the plant. That spot eventually heals, but the scab left behind is known as a leaf scar.

Leaf scars are unique to individual species and difficult to spot, but are important particularly in the sugar and maple syrup industry to identify trees suitable for tapping during the winter months.