An incision in a leaf refers to a cut or a slit made on the surface of a leaf. This can be a natural occurrence due to the growth pattern of the plant or it can be a result of external factors such as insect or animal damage, weather conditions, or human interference.
Incisions can vary in size and shape, from small notches to deep cuts that divide the leaf into separate parts. Some plants, such as ferns, have naturally incised leaves as part of their growth pattern, while other plants may develop incisions as a response to stress or to maximize their exposure to sunlight.
In some cases, incisions can also be made intentionally by gardeners or horticulturists to propagate plants, or to promote new growth or a particular shape or pattern in the leaves.