Determining the correct group or genus usually is sufficient in identifying a flower in the field. Roots are the fundamental anchoring system and the means through which water and nutrients are absorbed and sometimes stored. A root also can help determine whether a plant is an annual or perennial. Plants with fibrous roots generally are annuals, especially those with less-extensive root systems. Fibrous roots also tend to be irregularly branched.
Taproots tend to have a main, stout axis extending vertically, and often bear smaller lateral roots.
This central axis often can be thickened by storage of food. A carrot is an example of a taproot. Many annuals and biennials and some perennials have this type of root system. More specialized root systems include corns, bulbs, rhizomes and tubers. All these are underground modified stems that serve as food storage and often aid in reproduction.