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cladode| In botany, a flattened stem that is leaflike in appearance and function. It is an adaptation to dry conditions because a stem contains fewer stomata than a leaf, and water loss is thus minimized. The true leaves in such plants are usually reduced to spines or small scales. Examples of plants with cladodes are butcher's-broom Ruscus aculeatus, asparagus, and certain cacti. Cladodes may bear flowers or fruit on their surface, and this distinguishes them from leaves. |
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