Magnolia is a large tree, reaching a height of 80 or more feet and a
diameter of 3 to 5 feet. the wood is finely grained, taking a brilliant
polish. The leaves are oval, long and slightly hairy below. The bark of
the young wood is curved or quilled, fissured outside, with occasional
warts and orange-brown in color. Drying and age cause the loss of its
volatile and aromatic property.
The blade of a magnolia leaf is strengthened by a network of veins,
which may be parallel or may branch out from the central midrib. Each
vein contains vascular bundles, which are a system of tubes for carrying
water and food to the leaf cells. When a leaf falls from the tree the
cells get broken down by insects feeding on them and by bacterial decay.
The tougher veins persist as the leaf skeleton.
Magnolia leaves can be subjected to a chemical process to remove all
the juice and sap and leave only skeleton veins. They are then colored
according to the seasons and overprinted with a slogan or message.
Magnolia leave skeleton is a beautiful decorative piece and is used for
decorative and ornamental purposes.
How to make Skeleton Leaf?
- Take long leaves and press them in between old telephone books.
- Make a solution of washing soda and add the pressed leaves in it.
- When the flesh becomes pulpy, take out the leaves and rinse in
clear water.
- Gently brush away the pulp with a toothbrush.
History
