Aerial roots of Hydrangea petiolaris C017 / 7025
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Aerial roots of Hydrangea petiolaris C017 / 7025
A one year old stem of Hydrangea petiolaris, growing amongst ivy (Hedera helix) against the wall of a house. The stem has produced adventitious aerial roots on its upper side.H. petiolaris is a woody climber; it uses aerial roots in order to attach itself to the bark of trees, to rocks, or, in gardens, to walls. The roots emerge on the side of the stem away from the light. In this picture, the upper side of the stem was deeply shaded by ivy leaves (removed). Underground roots of plants show geotropism; they grow downwards. In the case the of aerial roots shown here, growth is directed towards low light levels; the roots are growing upwards. They are destined never to reach the wall due to the presence of the ivy. The roots are approximately 2cm long; the distance between the stem and the wall is 6cm
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9340327
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Aerial Root Climber Climbing Plant Garden Plant Geotropism
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of Hydrangea petiolaris, a woody climber known for its unique method of attachment. Against the backdrop of a house wall covered in lush ivy leaves, a one-year-old stem of Hydrangea petiolaris can be seen adorned with adventitious aerial roots on its upper side. These aerial roots serve as nature's way for this climbing plant to secure itself onto various surfaces such as tree barks, rocks, and even garden walls. In this particular image, however, the presence of the ivy prevents these delicate roots from ever reaching their intended destination. Interestingly, while underground roots typically exhibit geotropism by growing downwards towards gravity's pull, these aerial roots display an intriguing behavior. Instead of following traditional growth patterns, they defy gravity by reaching upwards towards low light levels. Measuring approximately 2cm in length and positioned around 6cm away from the wall due to the obstructing ivy leaves (which have been removed for clarity), these slender and determined roots showcase nature's resilience and adaptability. Through this remarkable photograph captured by Dr. Jeremy Burgess from Science Photo Library, we are offered a glimpse into the fascinating world of plants' survival strategies and their ability to thrive even under challenging circumstances.
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