Chapter 2: Fluid–Structure Interactions in Plant Vascular Flows

Vascular conduits in plants are soft enough to deform in response to stresses from the fluid flows they carry. Yet fluid stresses are in turn affected by channel deformation. This leads to interesting coupled elasto-viscous phenomena. This chapter explores fluid–structure interactions related to plant vascular transport across scales. We begin by discussing the link between the bending of a branch and cellular pressure. This is followed by an examination of flow and mechanical stability in conduits under tension. Next, the effects of elasticity in intercellular transport are scrutinised. Finally, the energetic cost of cytoplasmic streaming is discussed.