File:Angiosperm Morphology Midrib Vein in Leaf of Ficus (36148360970).jpg

cross section: Ficus leaf magnification: 100x

The upper epidermis in Ficus is multiseriate, consisting of several layers of compact well cutinized cells, with those in the deeper layer being substantially larger than than those in the surface layer. The deepest layer is interrupted by large lithocysts, containing stalked clusters of calcium carbonate, or cystoliths. Stomata are lacking in the upper epidermis.

In most, but not all Ficus species, the lower epidermis is uniseriate, consisting of smaller, compactly arranged, and less heavily cutinized cells. Sunken stomata with sub-stomatal chambers are present in the lower epidermis. In some Ficus species small cystoliths are seen in the lower epidermis.

The mesophyll is differentiated into upper palisade and lower spongy zones. The palisade mesophyll consists of several layers of densely packed, columnar parenchyma cells that contain abundant chloroplasts. The parenchyma cells of the spongy mesophyll have fewer chloroplasts and are loosely arranged with large intracellular air spaces.

Embedded in the mesophyll are vascular bundles of varying sizes. The bundles are closed, collateral and wrapped in clear parenchymatous bundle sheaths. Xylem occurs to the upper or adaxial surface and phloem to the lower or abaxial surface.

In larger vascular bundles patches of supported sclerenchyma occur above the xylem and below the phloem. Abundant dark staining lactifers produce latex like substances.