The Power of Arrhizal Plants: Adaptation and Propagation

Arrhizal (from Greek "arrhizos" = "rooted") refers to the ability of a plant to produce adventitious roots, which are roots that grow from parts of the plant other than the stem, such as the leaves, stems, or nodes. These roots can be used for anchoring the plant, absorbing nutrients, and storing water and nutrients.

Arrhizal plants have evolved this ability to produce adventitious roots as an adaptation to their environment, allowing them to survive in conditions where traditional root systems may not be effective, such as in poor soil quality, drought, or high winds. Examples of arrhizal plants include succulents, cacti, and bromeliads.

In horticulture, the term "arrhizal" is often used to describe plants that are easy to propagate using leaf or stem cuttings, as these plants can produce roots readily from their leaves or stems. This method of propagation is quicker and more cost-effective than traditional methods such as seed germination or grafting.