Distribution of leaf characteristics in relation to orientation within the canopy of woody species

► Leaves from isolated trees were sampled to analyze differences among orientations. ► Gas-exchange, water potential, temperature and light were measured during the course of one day. ► Maximum temperatures and minimum water potentials were recorded on the west side of the tree. ► Mean individual leaf area was significantly larger on the east side of the tree compared to the west side. ► There were no differences in leaf mass per unit area between east and west sides.