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A leaf’s geometry determines whether it falls far from its tree

Round leaves land near the tree, while lobed, asymmetrical leaves fly far

An image showing a yellow leaf on an otherwise leafless tree branch with a blue sky background

Scientists have shown that leaves’ shapes and symmetry let them fall close to the tree — allowing the tree access to the nutrients in them.

Vicente Méndez/Getty Images

By Bethany Brookshire

An apple may not fall far from the tree, but for a leaf, it depends on its shape.

Elm or apple leaves — oval and symmetrical, with few protruding lobes — fall quickly, making them likely to end up close to the tree’s base.