April 7, 2025

There are some leaves that are water repellant. I love to see these plants during rain, or just after rain has fallen. The leaves look to me like they are covered with gem stones. This is a leaf of Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) and is a great example of a leaf that is water repellant, or hydrophobic, looking to me like it is bejeweled.

Leaves with this trait often have a surface that is a waxy layer, known as the cuticle. Other leaves are covered with small hairs, or trichomes, to help water run off the leaf. The hydrophobicity may help the plant keep its leaves clean. Another benefit of hydrophobic leaves is it helps reduce water loss through the leaf surface.

Whatever the reason, I appreciate the beauty that is a result of this trait.

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