A corm is a short, vertical, swollen underground plant stem that functions as a storage organ. It's a modified stem base, distinct from a bulb or tuber, composed of solid stem tissue with one or more growing points (buds) and enclosed by dry, scale-like leaves (tunic). These buds enable the plant to propagate asexually, forming new plants from the parent corm. Corms allow plants to survive unfavorable conditions by storing energy. Examples include plants such as gladioli, crocuses and taro.
Corm meaning with examples
- The gardener carefully dug up the gladiolus corms after the flowering season, ensuring they were dry and stored properly. She chose the largest corms to replant next spring, hoping for even more vibrant blooms. Observing the corms closely, she examined the growing points to ensure their viability and the potential for new growth. The corms would then sit dormant over winter until the right conditions for planting again.
- Botanists studying the taro plant discovered that the corm, not the leaves, was the primary food source for local populations. Farmers in the region carefully cultivated the taro corms, selecting the largest and healthiest ones for propagation. Examining the corm's internal structure revealed its efficient starch storage capabilities, vital for the plant's survival and human consumption. The taro corms could be mashed or processed.
- The delicate crocus corms were planted in the autumn, ensuring they had the time and resources to establish before winter. The corm’s size and health will significantly dictate the quality and size of the flowers produced. The crocus corms need well-draining soil to prevent rot, due to excess water. They are relatively easy to maintain and propagate.
- In her biology class, the student learned to differentiate between corms, bulbs, and tubers based on their structure and storage mechanisms. She was excited when they pulled up some ginger that had corms and was amazed at its size. She was given a research assignment and asked to compare and contrast the survival advantages of plants that utilize corms. These underground structures were truly fascinating.
Corm Crossword Answers
4 Letters
BULB