The shape of lower cauline leaves is quite variable. Their size is more or less similar to the cauline one. Proximal cauline leaves are withered at anthesis. At the base of the cauline leaves a sheath embraces the stem. Phyllodes are continuous with branchlets but without forming cauline wings. There are sometimes small inflorescences located in the cauline leaf axils along the stem. The leaves are cauline, and more or less clasping. The stems, petioles, and upper surfaces of the cauline leaves are sparsely hairy. "Aristida" stems are ascending to erect, with both basal and cauline leaves. Some leaves emerge along the flower stem (which is known as cauline in botany terms). Size of lower cauline leaves&colon; width , length . The alternate leaves are cauline and ensiform (sword shaped). It cauline leaves are tall and wide. Cauline leaves are infrequent and much smaller. Both the basal and cauline (stem) leaves are arranged alternately.