What is the term for a horizontal, creeping stem growing below the soil surface?

The term for a horizontal, creeping stem that grows below the soil surface is a rhizome. Rhizomes are a type of underground stem that can produce new shoots and roots at nodes along their length, allowing them to spread vegetatively. This growth habit is crucial for the survival of many plant species, as it enables them to colonize new areas effectively and can also store energy and nutrients.

In contrast, stolons are similar structures but grow above the soil surface. Tubers are swollen underground stems or roots that store nutrients and energy, like potatoes, while bulbs are storage organs consisting of a short stem with fleshy leaves or scales that can develop into new plants. Understanding these distinctions is essential for proper identification and knowledge of plant biology and propagation methods in agronomy.