stolon

noun

Meaning

A horizontal stem that grows along the surface of the ground or just below it, producing new roots and shoots at its nodes to propagate the plant.

Examples

  • The strawberry plant spreads rapidly by sending out a long stolon that takes root in the garden bed.
  • Gardeners often prune the stolons of potted plants to ensure the parent plant directs its energy toward fruit production.

Synonyms: runner, shoot, rhizome, offset