The lotus—with its tenuous, spindly stems; broad, waxen leaves; and provocative, curling petals—has held a prominent spot in mythological imagery for thousands of years. Among other things, an iconic hatha yoga pose borrows its name; the flower’s shape visually represents the seven major chakras; and even the Greeks gave the plant a nod when Odysseus’ crew narrowly escapes an eternity of syrupy contentment on the Lotus-Eaters’ island.
Now let’s add a modern scientific finding that salutes the lotus: it vibrates. Researchers at Duke University found that part of the lotus leaf’s secret to staying dry despite dewey conditions lies in its ability to use vibrations present in its natural environment. The surface of the leaf literally bounces water droplets off as it oscillates on the stem—check out the video at the New York Times.
We’re no experts in botanical mythology—if you are, please enlighten us further!—but the delicate genius of this adaptation seemed simply sublime.
