ligule

Etymology
From ligula, diminutive of liga.

Noun

 * 1) A strap-shaped structure.
 * 2)  A portion of a leaf found at the base of the petiole, when present.
 * 3)  In many grasses (Poaceae) and some sedges (Cyperaceae), the membranous appendage or ring of hairs projecting from the inner side of a leaf at the junction between the blade and the sheath.