heliotropism
Heliotropism is the growth or movement of plants in response to sunlight. This phenomenon allows plants to maximize their exposure to light, which is essential for photosynthesis. Many flowers, like sunflowers, exhibit this behavior by turning their heads to follow the sun's path across the sky during the day.
In addition to flowers, some leaves also show heliotropic movement. This adaptation helps plants optimize light absorption, promoting healthy growth. Heliotropism is particularly important for plants in competitive environments, where access to sunlight can determine their survival and reproductive success.