Heliofugal

/ˌhiːliːˈoʊfjʊɡəl/ adjective

Definition

Growing or moving away from sunlight; the opposite of phototropism, characteristic of some plants and organisms that prefer shade.

Etymology

From Greek 'helios' (sun) and Latin 'fugal' (fleeing or running away), literally describing things that flee from the sun.

Kelly Says

Some plants are actually heliofugal when they're young seedlings—they instinctively grow away from bright light into protected shade until they're strong enough to handle full sun exposure!

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