Changes in Stomata and Chlorophyll Content with Leaf Growth in Cherry Laurel

In this research, leaf morphology, stomatal structure, and pigment concentration were examined and compared between young and mature cherry laurel leaves. Findings showed that mature leaves exhibited statistically significant increases in stomatal width (mature leaf: 17.12 μm; young leaf: 14.74 μm) and pore length (mature: 7.78 μm; young leaf: 4.90 μm) compared to young leaves. Color parameters changed significantly, with mature leaves attaining darker, greener tones. Correlation and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed strong agreement between these traits. A very strong, significant positive correlation was observed between leaf area index and SPAD. There are strong relationships between stomatal width and length and leaf area index. The correlation findings suggest that cherry laurel optimizes gas exchange by increasing individual stomatal dimensions rather than stomatal density. The results suggest that the morphophysiological development strategy of cherry laurel may support an adaptation model that enhances photosynthetic efficiency.