In
plant morphology, a
cataphyll (sometimes also called a
cataphyllum, or
cataphyll leaf) is a reduced, small
leaf. Many plants have both "true leaves" (
euphylls) which perform the majority of
photosynthesis, and cataphylls that are modified to perform other specialized functions. Cataphylls include
bracts,
bracteoles, and
bud scales, as well as any small leaves that resemble
scales, which are known as
scale leaves. Some cataphylls have a primary function other than photosynthesis. The functions of cataphylls such as bud scales may be short-lived and they are often shed after the need for them is past.
