[Smart Farmers] Can plants predict the weather? Uncovering the ecological secrets behind the "green umbrella"

In tropical regions, there is an amazing legume plant that has an extraordinary ability to store water. This plant is called the "rain tree". On rainy days and nights, the rain tree can condense water vapor into water droplets. When the weather is clear, these water droplets will slowly drip from the leaves, forming a natural phenomenon similar to rain.

The rain tree is a tall tree with a tall trunk and dense crown, like a bunch of green umbrellas. Its leaves are broad and thick, and the water storage capacity of this kind of leaves is very strong. When it rains, the leaves of the rain tree will naturally roll up into small rolls, condense the water vapor into water droplets, and then slowly stretch out and sprinkle the stored water droplets. This process gives people an illusion of rain in a clear sky, showing the magical charm of the rain tree.

In addition to being ornamental, the wood of the rain tree is also very straight and soft, and can be used in the construction of bridges and ships. The lightness, softness and durability of this wood make it widely used in the construction field.

At present, rain trees are mainly distributed in Hainan, Yunnan and Taiwan. The climatic conditions in these places are suitable for the growth of rain trees. In the local area, rain trees are regarded as a precious natural resource and are protected and paid attention to by people.

In addition to rain trees, there are many other magical plants and animals that also have similar phenomena. For example, there is a "raining bird" in South America, whose feathers can absorb moisture from the air and then slowly release it, forming a natural phenomenon similar to rain.

Nature is like a magical treasure chest, filled with unexpected treasures. The rain tree is just one example. There are many other magical creatures waiting for us to discover and explore. Let us love nature together, protect these precious natural resources, and let more people have the opportunity to understand and appreciate their beauty. Maybe the next time you go out on a rainy day, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that there is a rain tree next to you, quietly holding up a green umbrella for you on rainy days.

Produced by: Science Popularization China, Smart Farmers, Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, National Tropical Plant Germplasm Resource Bank, Guangming.com

Scientific review: Institute of Spice and Beverages, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences

Producer: Qin Xiaowei, Zhan Zhao

Co-ordinator: Xie Xiang, Wu Yuetong, Zhao Huiyang

Planning: Wei Lai

Guest: Huang Jingping

Filming and Production: Lai Yuhao

Copy editor: Wu Yuetong Hou Siyu (internship)