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Fenestration

fen-eh-STRAY-shun
🔬 Anatomy●● Intermediate

Also known as: leaf perforation, leaf splitting

Fenestration is the formation of holes or splits in leaf tissue, most famously seen in Monstera deliciosa. Research shows that fenestrated leaves capture more sunflecks in the forest understory by covering a larger area with the same biomass. The trait develops once a plant reaches maturity (2–3 years in Monstera) and receives adequate light.

Etymology

Latin fenestra meaning window