What is a Rhizome?

A rhizome is a type of underground stem that grows horizontally beneath the soil surface. A lot of times you may see them on top of the soil surface as it washes away during the season. The rhizome serves as a storage organ for the plant. It stores nutrients and water, and can also functions in vegetative reproduction. Rhizomes are commonly found in many types of plants, including grasses, ferns, ginger, turmeric, certain flowering plants like canna lilies and so much more!

Unlike roots, which primarily anchor the plant and absorb water and nutrients from the soil, rhizomes have nodes and internodes, much like above-ground stems. From these nodes, new shoots and roots can emerge, allowing the plant to spread and propagate vegetatively.

Rhizomes play a crucial role in the growth and survival of many plant species. They enable plants to colonize new areas, survive adverse environmental conditions such as drought or fire, and reproduce asexually by producing new plants from the nodes along the rhizome.

In the case of canna lilies, rhizomes are the primary method of propagation. Gardeners can divide mature canna plants by carefully separating the rhizomes and replanting them to create new plants. This process allows for the rapid expansion of canna lily colonies and the cultivation of new varieties with desirable traits.

Rhizomes are essential structures in the life cycle of many plants, providing them with resilience, adaptability, and the ability to spread and thrive in diverse environments.

Happy Gardening!

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The Thrifted Planter

Ciearra is a gardener and houseplant enthusiast of over 10 years! She has been growing indoors and outdoors. Supplying food for her family and beautifying her home with annuals, perennials and houseplants! Ciearra is passionate about sharing her knowledge of plant care with anyone who needs help or a quick plant growth tip! When she’s not blogging you can find her tending to her chickens, dogs and hanging out with her family

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