Leaf duration

Leaf duration is how long a leaf stays on the plant and remains functional, which is largely shaped by adaptation to climate. Caducous (fugacious) leaves fall off very soon after they form (Opuntia, Cissus quadrangularis). Deciduous leaves fall together at the end of a growing season, leaving the tree or shrub leafless through the unfavourable winter or summer period (maple, Plumeria, Launea, Erythrina). Evergreen leaves persist year-round; individual leaves do fall, but only gradually and continuously, so the plant is never completely bare (Mimusops, Calophyllum). Marcescent leaves do not fall …