oblongovate

Oblongovate is a botanical term used to describe a leaf or lamina shape that is longer than broad with an elongated, near-oval outline that blends oblong and ovate features. The word derives from Latin oblongus (long) and ovatus (egg-shaped).

In formal descriptions, an oblongovate leaf is typically longer than wide, with sides that are relatively straight or only slightly curved, giving an outline intermediate between oblong and ovate. The base and apex can vary depending on the taxon, with bases ranging from rounded to slightly cordate and apices from acute to acuminate. Margins are usually whole, though they may be subtly undulate. The length-to-width proportion is greater than 1, with exact values differing among species and sources.

The term is primarily used in taxonomic descriptions and herbarium labels to convey a specific, intermediate leaf form. It is one of several standard leaf-shape descriptors employed in floras and keys, alongside terms such as oblong, ovate, and obovate. Use of oblongovate can help distinguish taxa where leaves show a blend of oblong and ovate characteristics, particularly when combined with details on margin, venation, and growth habit.

See also: leaf shape descriptors such as oblong, ovate, obovate, and oblong-ovate.