The lateral appendages present at the leaf base are called as stipules. Stipules show wide range of structural diversity. The main types of stipules are:
(i) Free-lateral: The two stipules are free and found on either side of the petiole base. Example: Hibiscus
(ii) Adnate: The stipules are partially fused Example: Rose
(iii) Intrapetiolar: The stipule is present at the axil of leaf; two stipules fused to form a single structure Example: Gardenia
(iv) Interpetiolar: The stipules lying between the adjacent petiole fuse i.e. stipule of adjacent leaves is fused. Example: Ixora
(v) Ochreate: The two stipules fused to form a tube like structure
(vi) Foliaceous: The leaf blade is modified into tendrils and stipules and are foliaceous.
(vii) Tendrillar: Stipules are modified into tendrils Example: Smilax
(viii) Spiny: The stipules are modified into spines. Example: Acacia.
