The cuticle covers a plant’s leaves, reducing water loss in the plant. The cuticle is one portion of the leaf tissue’s dermal layer. In addition to aiding the plant retain water, the cuticle helps the dermal layer perform other functions vital to plant health.
The Dermal Layer
The dermal layer consists of 2 components. The skin is a one-cell thick, skinlike tissue which covers the whole plant. In woody plants, this membrane is stiffer and much more corky. The epidermis secretes a waxy substance that coats the exterior of the leaf, the cuticle. Tiny openings, known as stomata, dot the surface of the leaf. The stomata open and shut to release water and gasses in the plant.
Other Cuticle Functions
The cuticle and skin act in a means that’s somewhat like the way animal skin closes. As well as controlling water loss in plants, the cuticle helps the epidermis repel attacks from insects, protects it in intense sun and windy conditions and other factors in the surroundings. The cuticle also provides some structure and stiffness to the leaf. The cuticle is a barrier to entry in addition to protecting the plant from excessive water loss.