As pliant as a bamboo

When you see bamboo poles used for fencing or flooring in remote villages in undeveloped countries, you wouldn't think them pliant but while they are still growing they sway with the gentlest of winds.

It is an Oriental saying that in a storm it is better to be
a slender, pliant bamboo than a big, massive Acacia tree.

I guess bamboos "go with the flow" to survive.