sclerophyllöar

Sclerophyll refers to vegetation that has an abundance of stiff, leathery leaves. These leaves are typically small, thick, and waxy, adaptations that help plants survive in environments with limited water and high solar radiation. The term "sclerophyllous" originates from the Greek words "skleros" meaning hard and "phyllon" meaning leaf.

Sclerophyllous vegetation is a characteristic feature of several major biomes, most notably Mediterranean-type ecosystems, also known as scrublands or chaparral. These areas experience hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, conditions that favor plants with drought-resistant foliage. Examples include the Mediterranean Basin, California, central Chile, the Cape Province of South Africa, and southwestern and southern Australia.

The hard, leathery nature of sclerophyllous leaves is due to a thickened cuticle, a layer of waxy cells on the leaf surface, and a high density of sclerenchyma tissue. This toughness reduces water loss through transpiration, protects against herbivores, and can help reflect excessive sunlight. Many sclerophyllous plants also possess other adaptations such as deep root systems to access groundwater, or the ability to shed leaves during severe drought. Common plant types found in sclerophyllous environments include shrubs, small trees, and certain grasses.