Broadleaves

Broadleaves are leaves that are broad and flat in shape, in contrast to needle-like or scale-like leaves found on many conifers. The term is commonly used to describe angiosperm plants, particularly trees and shrubs, whose leaf blades are wide and capable of broad light capture. While many broadleaf species are deciduous, shedding their leaves seasonally, a number of evergreen broadleaf plants also exist.

Morphology among broadleaves varies widely. Most have flat blades with reticulate venation, and leaves can be simple or compound and come in a range of sizes and forms (from lobed to entire margins). This diversity reflects adaptation to different climates, light environments, and ecological roles. Broadleaf trees often thrive in temperate and tropical regions where their broad surfaces maximize photosynthesis during favorable growing seasons, though many evergreen broadleaf species persist year-round.

Ecology and use. Broadleaved forests are major components of temperate and tropical ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity, soil structure, and nutrient cycling through leaf litter. In temperate zones, many broadleaf species form deciduous canopies that reduce water loss in winter, while evergreen broadleaf forests maintain continuous canopy cover in milder or wetter climates. Economically, broadleaved hardwoods (such as oaks, maples, beeches, and birches) are valued for timber, pulp, and ornamental uses, and broadleaf trees often play important roles in urban landscaping and habitat provision for wildlife.

Examples of common broadleaved trees include oaks, maples, beeches, birches, and elms; evergreen broadleaf species include magnolias, live oaks, hollies, and laurels.