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 co rn s , bulbs, rhizomes and tubers. The stem is the axis of the plant from which all other parts arise.