Pavement Cells (Leaf Puzzle Pieces)

Flat, wiggly puzzle pieces

Pavement cells are the most common cells in the skin of a leaf. They are flat, and in many plants their edges are wavy, so neighbors fit together like jigsaw puzzle pieces.

In grasses and many other plants, they are longer and lined up in neat rows instead.

They are mostly clear, so sunlight can shine through them to the food-making cells underneath.

A leaf's raincoat

Pavement cells make a waxy layer called the cuticle on the outside of the leaf. The wax works like a raincoat:

• It keeps the leaf from drying out.
• It helps keep out germs and dirt.

Between the pavement cells sit pairs of guard cells that open and close tiny air doors.

Pavement cell quiz