Which plant part connects the leaf blade to the stem?

The part of the plant that connects the leaf blade to the stem is the petiole. The petiole is a stalk that supports the leaf and plays a crucial role in transporting water and nutrients between the leaf and the stem. This connection allows the leaf to effectively capture sunlight for photosynthesis while also remaining anchored to the plant body.

In contrast, the mid-rib is a central vein that runs along the length of the leaf blade and provides structural support but does not serve as the connection to the stem. Stipules are small, leaf-like structures that can be found at the base of the leaf petiole, offering protection to the leaf bud but not serving as a connector to the stem. Veins within the leaf itself are responsible for the distribution of water and nutrients but do not connect the leaf blade to the stem. Thus, the petiole is the specific structure that facilitates this essential connection in a plant.