Plants are Recursive!!: Using L-Systems to Generate Realistic Weeds
summary
Claim: L-systems generate realistic weeds by iterating simple string‑rewriting rules and rendering them with turtle graphics. Implementation uses L-systems string rewriting, line commands F with + and - for turn angles, and push/pop state via [ ] to model branching. Deterministic iterations (4–7 rounds shown) produce fractal shapes while stochastic rules (50/50 alternatives) add natural variation. A live web demo renders 2D plants, the code and resources are available, and extensions to 3D trees and flowers are feasible and practical.
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chapters (9)
- 0:00Start
- 1:00plants & recursion
- 1:32repetition in a self-similar way
- 2:09recursion in nature
- 3:04algae cell growth
- 3:15a string rewriting system
- 4:04describing recursive patterns
- 8:15introducing randomness
- 10:11resources
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