Leaves are often modified to perform functions other than photosynthesis. They are converted into tendrils for climbing as in peas or into spines for defence as in cacti. (Fig. a, b). The fleshy leaves of onion and garlic store food (fig. c). In some plants such as Australian acacia, the leaves are small and short - lived. The petioles in these plants expand, become green and synthesize food. Leaves of certain insectivorous plants such as pitcher plant, venus - fly trap are also modified leaves.
Modifications of leaf for:
(a) support: tendril
(b) protection: spines
(c) storage: fleshy leaves
