Effect of water stress on leaf movements in olive cultivars

Leaf elevation, water potential and gas exchanges of the cultivars Canino and Leccino were measured in well irrigated and stressed plants. Low levels of net assimilation and transpiration rates and xylem water potential were observed after 6 and 7 days of water withholding. Leaf elevation differed according to water availability and cultivar. A more vertical position of the leaves was measured in water stressed plants. Leccino leaves were steeper than Canino leaves irrespectively of the water status of the plants.