overview
LOBED LEAVES
A lobed leaf is one with one or more distinct projections, either rounded or pointed, called lobes. The indentations between lobes are called sinuses, and like lobes, hey can be either pointed or rounded.
Ohio Native Trees with Lobed Leaves
On the left is an example of a pointed lobed leaf, the Red Oak. The lobes on these trees have bristles at the end of its lobes. There are typically anywhere from 7-11 lobes on each leaf.
In the middle is the Sweetgum tree, whose leaves have pointy lobes and sharp sinuses. Each leaf has 5-7 lobes that are deeply cut and have toothed edges. Many mistake these trees for a Maple, but they can be distinguished by their distinct star shaped leaves.
The right image shows the Tulip Tree’s lobed leaves, which have a unique tulip shape. Tulip Tree leaves have 4-5 pointed lobes and a distinct notched tip where a v-shape dips inward.