Littleleaf

Littleleaf is a common name applied to several plant species and cultivars that have unusually small leaves. It is not a formal taxonomic group, and there is no single set of defining features shared by all plants referred to as littleleaf.

In horticulture and gardening, littleleaf appears as both a descriptive term and part of cultivar names. It is used for shrubs and trees across various genera that exhibit reduced leaf size compared with related forms. Because leaf size and plant habit can vary, littleleaf plants may be deciduous or evergreen and may belong to conifers, broadleaf shrubs, or small trees.

Characteristics and uses of littleleaf forms typically include a compact growth habit, slow or moderate growth, and dense foliage, features that suit small gardens, container culture, rock gardens, and urban landscapes. Tolerance to drought, cold, or wind varies by species, and pruning or feeding needs depend on the particular plant. Some littleleaf forms are selected mainly for ornamental value rather than ecological role in the wild.

Ecologically, smaller leaves can influence transpiration and light capture, and many littleleaf forms are bred for aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance rather than for natural habitat associations. The term’s lack of a fixed meaning means gardeners should verify the exact species or cultivar information when selecting a plant labeled littleleaf.

See also: common name, plant cultivar, horticulture.