Temporality of Ice-formation and -Progression vs. Leaf Thermonasty during Natural Freeze in Rhododendron maximum, and Mechanistic Hypothesis for Leaf Rolling

Key Points

• Investigate how ice-formation and leaf thermonasty correspond during natural freeze in Rhododendron maximum.
• Utilized infrared thermography to observe ice-formation and leaf behavior.
• Analyzed physical responses of leaves during natural freezing events.
• Developed a mechanistic hypothesis related to leaf rolling.
• Ice-formation was closely linked to the timing of leaf thermonasty.
• Leaf rolling appeared to be an adaptive response to freezing.
• Highlighted potential mechanisms behind winter survival strategies in Rhododendron maximum.