There is more to a leaf than meets the eye! Explore this new, immersive, free exhibit (February 1- April 13, 2025) that highlights the complex and often beautiful anatomy of leaves from the Matthaei collection. Throughout the conservatory, plants are paired with oversized “magnifying glasses” that use scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy, and microCT scans to highlight a bug’s eye view of the botanical world. Each magnifying glass is accompanied by a sign that explains how tiny leaf structures protect leaves from herbivores, absorb (or repel) water, and even recruit tiny arthropod bodyguards. You won’t look at leaves the same way again.
Leaves under the Lens is curated by EEB PhD student Rosemary Glos, in collaboration with the Weber and Vasconcelos labs.
