Is the spherical leaf inclination angle distribution a valid assumption for temperate and boreal broadleaf tree species?

► Leaf angle distributions of 58 broadleaf tree species in temperate/boreal zone reported. ► 75 leaves enough for reliable estimates of tree level mean leaf angle distribution. ► No seasonality of leaf angles of the selected tree species, except directly after budburst. ► Spherical leaf angle distribution not a valid assumption for most of the studied species. ► Planophile or plagiophile leaf angle distribution more appropriate.