rhizome

rhi·zome   (rī'zōm')    (click for larger image in new window) n.  A horizontal, usually underground stem that often sends out roots and shoots from its nodes. Also called rootstalk, rootstock. [Greek rhizōma, mass of roots, from rhizoun, to cause to take root, from rhiza, root; see wrād- in Indo-European roots.] rhi·zom'a·tous (-zŏm'ə-təs, -zō'mə-) adj., rhi·zom'ic adj.

Main Entry: rhi·zome
Pronunciation: 'rI-"zOm
Function: noun
: a usually horizontal subterranean plant stem that is distinguished from a true root inpossessing buds, nodes, and usually scalelike leaves

rhizome   (rī'zōm')  Pronunciation Key  (click for larger image in new window) A plant stem that grows horizontally under or along the ground and often sends out roots and shoots. New plants develop from the shoots. Ginger, iris, and violets have rhizomes. Also called rootstock. Compare bulb, corm, runner, tuber.