Why do the leaves on the trees turn upwards before it rains?

Question

It seems like almost everytime it rains in the summertime the leaves turn upwards showing their underside. This is most noticeable at night.

Answer 1

There's one rather science-minded guy who has already pointed out the relationship to the wind. But don't forget the more subtle aspects of Mother Nature's way. Why are leaves shaped and anchored in such a way as to have this behavior in the wind? That is more about how it came to be, not why it happens now. The leaves that are flexible enough on their stem to be able to turn up to the wind instead of breaking off are a survival characteristic. When the rain starts, those same leaves will have been nicely dusted off in the wind, and can get a good drink. They have a more effective relationship to the rain, and so they live longer and propagate more. Mother Nature does it that way.

Answer 2

I think it is most noticable during the afternoon when a thunderstorm is coming. The leaves turn upwards because of the light breeze you get before a storm.

Answer 3

The wind usually blows pretty hard before it rains, and it makes the leaves turn over. This is actually a pretty good indicator of rain in the near future.

Answer 4

To let the rain pass through. The tree wants every drop to get to soil. Some trees in the Rainforest do that. Mimosas do that also.

Answer 5

much in the way evolution just happens, trees have been here forever and the sense the oncoming rain. the leaves flip over, and i have no idea what the reason is, on instinct.

Answer 6

Because of the change in wind direction.

Answer 7

I have never noticed that

Answer 8

i have no idea but i wonder the same thing

Answer 9

I don't know, but my guess is to catch more water?

Answer 10

this is to catch moisture