Moved from Orb Weavers.

Moved from ID Request.

I am becoming increasingly aware of just how variable the colors and designs within the Araneus genus are. But I guess I could tell you to look into Araneus gemma and Araneus gemmoides as they both have the pointed 'ears' on the abdomen. Those were my first impressions, but many Araneus spiders could also look like those. For an accurate ID, you would need to submit a photo of the epigyne area, which is a female spider's reproductive organ. The photo would need to be of this area (on the underside of the abdomen, where the little 'notch' is):

This photo is just an example of the AREA that we need to see. Please don't confuse it for an identification. :) Also, she might be hiding in the leaves during the day because she is protecting her egg case. They look sort of like an orange-ish hair ball about the size of a dime or so I believe. Most of the Orb Weavers remake their webs every night and then try to feed during the day. Hope that helps a little. :)

Yay for spiders!!