Leaf Movements: Rosetta Stone of Plant Behavior?

Abstract

Potassium flux into and out of pulvinal motor cells is the basis for the turgor changes leading to leaflet movement in Albizzia and other nyctinastic plants. Endogenous rhythm, phytochrome and a blue absorbing pigment interact to control this movement, apparently by regulating potassium pumps and diffusion channels in motor cell membranes.