Cuticle
/KYOO-tih-kul/🔬 Anatomy●● Intermediate
Also known as: leaf cuticle, waxy coating
A continuous, non-cellular layer of wax and cutin secreted by the epidermis of aerial plant parts. The cuticle reduces water loss through transpiration and provides a barrier against pathogens and UV radiation. Cuticle thickness varies by species and environment — desert plants typically have thick cuticles while shade plants have thin ones. The cuticle also affects how well pesticide sprays adhere to leaves.
Etymology
Latin cuticula (little skin), diminutive of cutis (skin)
Example
“The thick waxy cuticle on holly leaves gives them their characteristic glossy sheen and helps prevent water loss.”