Xerophytic stomatal traits in winter wheat spikes help maintain photosynthesis during water deficit. Two wheat cultivars were studied, showing Pubing 143 was less affected by drought than Zhengyin 1. Pubing 143 spikes had lower stomatal conductance and transpiration rates under water deficit. Amphistomatous stomata were found on wheat spikes, which may explain their ability to maintain high photosynthetic rates during drought.