what is thick waxy coating means in microbiology
- Linda F. The waxy covering on plant leaves, young stems, and fruit is called the cuticle. It is composed of cutin, a wax-like material produced by the plant that is chemically a hydroxy fatty acid. The purpose of this covering is to help the plant retain water.In arid regions, that is very important. Linda F. The waxy covering on plant leaves, young stems, and fruit is called the cuticle. It is composed of cutin, a wax-like material produced by the plant that is chemically a hydroxy fatty acid. The purpose of this covering is to help the plant retain water. In arid regions, that is very important.