Uploaded August 2023 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Why do cottonwood, poplar, and aspen leaves flap in the wind? Many scientists say it is because this increases the diffusion of carbon dioxide into the leaves. But this would also be the case for all other plants, not just cottonwoods. The explanation is probably that cottonwoods, which already had flat petioles, could then and only then benefit from fluttering leaves.
Why do cottonwood, poplar, and aspen leaves flap in the wind? Many scientists say it is because this increases the diffusion of carbon dioxide into the leaves. But this would also be the case for all other plants, not just cottonwoods. The explanation is probably that cottonwoods, which already had flat petioles, could then and only then benefit from fluttering leaves.
