Food for thought? French bean plants show signs of intent, say scientists

Many botanists dispute idea of plant sentience, but study of climbing beans sows seed of doubt

They've provided us with companionship and purpose during the darkest days of lockdown, not to mention brightening our Instagram feeds. But the potted cacti, yucca, and swiss cheese plants we've welcomed into our homes are entirely passive houseguests. Aren't they?

Research suggests that at least one type of plant - the french bean - may be more sentient than we give it credit for: namely, it may possess intent.