Book 18, Question 36
Why Do Some Arctic Flowers Turn to Follow the Sun?
Some Arctic flowers turn to follow the Sun because their cup-shaped petals act like tiny satellite dishes that gather warmth! This sun tracking is called heliotropism. Let's follow the light.
More fun facts
- The Arctic poppy is the northernmost flower on Earth.
- Like a satellite dish, it slowly turns to follow the Sun.
- Young sunflowers also follow the Sun across the sky.
- Older sunflowers stop turning and face east.
- The Sun is not their only cue; plants also use an inner clock.
Sources: National Geographic, Science News Explores, Smithsonian Magazine
Questions kids ask
What is the northernmost flower on Earth?
The Arctic poppy, which slowly turns to follow the Sun like a satellite dish.