The drooping of rhododendron leaves in cold weather is a physiological response to conserve energy and prevent dehydration. This downward folding, often referred to as “rhododendron leaf curl,” is a visual indicator of the plant reacting to freezing or near-freezing temperatures.
This adaptation is critical for the plant’s survival. During cold periods, water in the ground may be frozen and unavailable for uptake by the roots. Simultaneously, the leaves continue to lose water through transpiration. By reducing the leaf surface area exposed to the cold air and wind, the plant minimizes water loss. The curling action also protects the delicate photosynthetic tissues from damage caused by harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, this mechanism helps prevent cellular damage due to ice crystal formation within the leaves themselves.
