Are Tendrils Leaves or Stems?

Tendril, in botany, plant organ specialized to anchor and support vining stems. Tendrils may be modified leaves, leaflets, leaf tips, or leaf stipules; they may, however, be derived as modified stem branches (e.g., grapes).

What is the difference between stem tendril and leaf tendril?

The key difference between stem tendril and leaf tendril is that stem tendril is a modified stem while leaf tendril is a modified leaf, leaflet or a leaf part. Tendril is a modified stem, leaf or petiole that is thread-like in shape. Tendrils mainly provide support for climbing parts.

Can leaves become tendrils?

In other plants such as the yellow vetch (Lathyrus aphaca), the whole leaf is modified to become tendrils while the stipules become enlarged and carry out photosynthesis. Still others use the rachis of a compound leaf as a tendril, such as members of the genus Clematis.