geophylla

Geophylla is a term used in botany to describe plants that survive adverse seasons by means of underground storage organs, such as bulbs, corms, tubers, or rhizomes. This geophytic life form enables perennation, with foliage that may die back during dormancy and reemerge from the storage organ when conditions improve.

During the growing season, new shoots emerge from the underground organ and may produce flowers before the plant enters dormancy again. Storage organs store water and nutrients, helping the plant tolerate drought or cold. Geophytes multiply by offsets, bulb division, or seed, depending on species.

Geophylla are widespread in many climates, from Mediterranean regions to temperate zones and some tropical highlands. They are especially common in habitats with distinct dry or cold seasons. In cultivation, they are valued for seasonal flowers such as daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and many lilies and irises.

Care and cultivation considerations include ensuring well-drained soil, full sun to light shade, and a dry rest period after growing; avoid overwatering during dormancy. Planting depth and spacing follow species-specific recommendations; many geophytes are propagated by dividing bulbs or tubers.