Fluid-structure interactions enable passive flow control in real and biomimetic plants

Microscale intercellular pores of tree conduit contain flexible elements that locally restrict flow in response to mechanical stress. This facilitates autonomous control which the cells collectively steer water across tissue strikingly complex patterns. With this insight, we are able design physically programmable inline devices operate without a central unit. We expect new approach will strongly impact flow-engineering, due its conceptual simplicity and low cost.