In a rainforest I am always struck by the lovely patterns that I find. Indeed, for me, looking for patterns is one of the interesting parts of exploring any forest, even those in our own backyard. Nature repeats certain forms and patterns with regularity. Branching is a part of this: one leaf vein flows into even smaller veins, the overall shape of which reflects the plant's need to find light, radiate heat, and withstand the forces of wind or rain. Sometimes the patterns directly assists the plant to contain rainwater. All such patterns in the natural world serve a vital purpose.

home