What Types of Roots Does an Orchid Plant Have?

Geography

• Orchids can grow in soil, on rocks and in trees. The roots of the rock and tree dwellers cling tightly to the surface and are often almost impossible to remove.

Features

• Most orchid roots are of the epiphytic type, meaning they grow attached to other surfaces--often trees--and absorb moisture from the air and the bark surface. There are two parts of an orchid root: the outer covering, called the velamen, and the tough inner core or cortex.

Function

• The outer velamen absorbs water, nutrients and oxygen while clinging tightly to its chosen surface. The strong inner cortex carries nutrients for the plant.

Types

• Orchid roots adapt in order to maximize effectiveness in absorbing nutrients in the air. For example, some orchid roots grow upward, extending their roots to absorb moisture in the air.

Significance

• Orchid roots are sensitive to change and grow for their specific environment, so changes to the environment have to be made slowly so the plant can grow a new set of roots.