Gigantic floating leaves occupy a large surface area at an economical material cost

The giant Amazonian waterlily (genus Victoria) produces the largest floating leaves in the plant kingdom. The leaves' notable vasculature has inspired artists, engineers, and architects for centuries. Despite the aesthetic appeal and scale of this botanical enigma, little is known about the mechanics of these extraordinary leaves. For example, how do these leaves achieve gigantic proportions? We show that the geometric form of the leaf is structurally more efficient than those of other smaller species of waterlily. In particular, the spatially varying thickness and regular branching of the primary veins ensures the structural integrity necessary for extensive coverage of the water surface, enabling optimal light capture despite a relatively low leaf biomass. Leaf gigantism in waterlilies may have been driven by selection pressures favoring a large surface area at an economical material cost, for outcompeting other plants in fast-drying ephemeral pools.

Automated summary

The giant Amazonian waterlily produces the largest floating leaves in the plant kingdom. The unique structure of these leaves has inspired artists, engineers, and architects. However, little is known about the mechanics of these leaves. This study reveals that the geometric form of the leaf is structurally more efficient, allowing for extensive coverage and optimal light capture.