When Trees Walk Away from Trouble — The Walking Palm Explained Can trees really move? Deep in the rainforests of Central and South America, the walking palm (Socratea exorrhiza) seems to do just that. When its roots are damaged or buried, it sprouts new ones on the other side and slowly “walks” toward sunlight — a brilliant survival hack that keeps it alive in a changing forest. Some scientists argue it doesn’t truly move — but even if it’s not a sprint, it’s nature’s slowest escape plan. 🌿 🎧