Light micrograph of a stalked secretory gland or trichome on the leaf epidermis of a tomato plant, ^ILycopersicon esculentum^i. The stalk bears a clump of four glandular cells which secrete a toxic cocktail of substances, including nicotine and solanine, as a defence mechanism and natural pest control. A great many plants possess glandular trichomes which secrete a variety of substances including nectar, aromatics and gums. Extrafloral substances are usually secreted as a defence against bacteria, fungi or predators whereas floral secretions attract insects for pollination purposes. Magnification: x200 at 35mm size.