I really like what yer tryin to do here Mako. jus a few pointers.
i think you need to pick a point of focus that will draw the viewer in especially if usoing shallow DOF like here. i The furthest most point would have been a good spot in this case.
i think a bit of angling to the stem part of the leaf would have made for a less static composition. It would create movement.
last i think I'd just boost the contrast on this shot to make it pop more.
Keep at it; you're getting better and better each time out.