Are scale leaves essencial in temperate-cold climates? An evaluation in tree species from temperate rainforests of South America

The development of scaly buds (= cataphylls) has been traditionally associated with seasonally cold climates, although only few species from the southern hemisphere were investigated in this regard. present work focuses on apical and axillary seven tree native to South-American Temperate Rainforests (STR). Due differences lineages which these derived, high levels inter-specific variation bud structure expected. Apical dissected under stereomicroscope, sizes their parent shoots evaluated. Cataphylls leaf primordia counted, presence colleters and/or trichomes registered. Both intra- variations found. two out species, naked other species. Axillary all but one In general terms, larger developed more organs. (in four species) was not restricted those lacking an outer cover cataphylls. Further studies should focus relevance at a broader scale as protective structures buds.