lehtipuun

Lehtipuu is a Finnish term used to describe deciduous or broad-leaved trees—trees that shed their leaves seasonally. It is not a taxonomic group, but a functional category that covers many different species across several plant families. The opposite category is havupuu, which refers to evergreen conifers.

In temperate regions, lehtipuut typically have broad, flat leaves and exhibit clear seasonal changes. Leaves usually appear in spring, reach peak size in summer, change color in autumn, and fall off before winter. Growth forms range from small trees to large canopies, and some species may be semi-deciduous in milder climates. While the term emphasizes leaf-shedding behavior, it does not define a single evolutionary lineage.

Ecology and distribution: Lehtipuut play essential roles in forest ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling through leaf litter, providing habitat, and shaping forest structure. They are widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, notably in Europe, Asia, and North America, where they inhabit temperate forests, woodlands, and urban environments.

Uses and cultural aspects: Humans cultivate lehtipuut for timber, ornamentals, shade, and biodiversity support. Many common urban trees, such as birch, beech, oak, and maple species, fall into this category. Their seasonal leaf display also influences landscape aesthetics and ecological planning in cities and parks.

See also: havupuu; deciduous forest.