Plant roots have greatly diversified in form and function since the emergence of the first land plants1,2, but the global organization of functional traits in roots remains poorly understood3,4.

In ecosystems around the world, fungi play crucial roles in supporting plant life. Their ability to form connections between ...

The study reveals that root and leaf evolution have followed different paths, Pregitzer said. Plant ecologists have known that the form and function of leaves are essential to a plant species’ success ...

Plant root hairs increase the roots surface area enabling it to absorb more water and nutrients. Now, researchers have discovered how the hairs grow straight and long. To develop an elongated ...

Root branching is critical for plants to secure anchorage and ensure the supply of water, minerals, and nutrients. To date, research on root branching has focused on lateral root development in young ...

Typically thought of as candy, the root form of licorice has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a range of conditions. Now, a new study shows that a compound from the root is ...