Petioles

The anthurium petioles are the petioles that connect the leaf to the stem or base of the plant. They are an essential part of plant morphology and play both a structural and functional role.

Anatomy and structure of the petioles:
Shape: The petioles of anthuriums are often long, slender and can be cylindrical, flattened or slightly grooved depending on the species. In some species they can be triangular in cross-section.
Size: The length varies greatly between species. In large anthuriums, such as Anthurium Veitchii or Anthurium Regale, the leaf stalks can be several decimetres long.
Texture: They can be smooth, grooved or slightly rough and are often coated with a layer of wax that protects them from water loss.

Functions of the petioles in anthuriums:
Support of the leaf apparatus: The petioles hold the leaf in the optimal position to capture light for photosynthesis. They are flexible enough to allow movement so that the leaves can turn towards the light source (phototropism).
Water and nutrient transport: Inside the leaf stalks there are vascular bundles that enable the transport of water, minerals and assimilates (e.g. sugar) between the leaf and the plant.

Aesthetic features:
In some Anthurium species, the leaf stalks have decorative properties, such as striking colors, interesting textures or distinctive shapes.