Which Leaf Cells Are Covered in Wax?

A plant cuticle is a protecting film covering the epidermis of leaves, young shoots and other aerial plant organs without periderm. It consists of lipid and hydrocarbon polymers impregnated with wax, and is synthesized exclusively by the epidermal cells.

Which layer of the leaf contains the waxy covering?

The epidermis is usually one cell layer thick. However, in plants that grow in very hot or very cold conditions, the epidermis may be several layers thick to protect against excessive water loss from transpiration. A waxy layer known as the cuticle covers the leaves of all plant species.

What are wax coated leaves?

Waxy coatings are barriers between the leaf and the environment, and they can help the plant retain moisture in hot environments. The coatings can also deflect the rays of the sun to keep the plant from transpiring too quickly, and may also discourage pathogens, like fungi and bacteria, from entering the leaves.