EPOD - a service of USRA (original) (raw)

October 10, 2024

Photographer: Menashe Davidson
Summary Author: Menashe Davidson

The fall of mature leaves in the Ficus genus at the end of winter in a Mediterranean climate may exhibit some unique characteristics. The drying process of these leaves follows a gradual pattern; starting with slight wilting and browning at the edges of the leaves before progressing towards the center. As drying continues, the leaves begin to detach from the tree. This shedding stage can be prolonged, with individual leaves falling over a period of days or weeks rather than all at once. Also, the veins in the leaves usually become more pronounced and visible. This is because the surrounding leaf tissue dehydrates and recedes, leaving the veins more exposed. Additionally, environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and amount of sunlight can influence the timing and intensity of leaf drying and shedding.

Photos taken beside the Mediterranean coast in Rishon Le Zion, Israel on March 28 2024. The top photo shows leaves before shedding, and the bottom photo shows a detached leaf.

Rishon Le Zion, Israel Coordinates: 31.9591, 34.8021

Related Links:
Spring and Summer Figs
More about leaves