They’re not just a passive green backdrop: plants actively engage in complex behaviourMeet the plant that is making scientists rethink how we understand intelligence. A growing body of research suggests that far from being merely a passive,green backdrop to the natural world, plants actively engage in complex behaviour. They are capable of communicating with allies, and attacking rivals and even feeding their young. But could we also add “learning” and “memory” to the list?Researchers in Australia recently sought to investigate this speculation by attempting to “train” a group of touch-me-not plants (Mimosa pudica). The ferny leaves of this exotic,South American houseplant own the curious property of “playing dead”: they instantly collapse to resemble a withered branch when they are touched. Botanists believe this evolved as a defence against herbivore attack.
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Source: theguardian.com