Specialized aerial roots that grow from the stem or branches down to the ground to provide additional structural support. These roots help stabilize tall plants or those growing in unstable soils.
The term combines 'prop' from Middle Dutch 'proppe' meaning 'support' with 'roots.' It emerged in the 19th century as botanists studied tropical plants that required additional structural support.
Prop roots are nature's scaffolding system! Corn plants actually grow these when they get tall and heavy - those diagonal roots you see at the base aren't just for show, they're preventing the plant from toppling over in wind.
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