Buttress root

Buttress roots are large, wide roots on all sides of a shallowly rooted tree. They are typically found in rainforests on nutrient-poor soils, providing structural support and gathering nutrients. These roots help to stabilize the tree against strong winds and also serve to increase the surface area for nutrient uptake. Buttress roots can extend several meters up the trunk of the tree and outwards from the base. They are formed by lateral roots that thicken and flatten, creating a flange-like structure. While providing stability, buttress roots also facilitate gas exchange and can play a role in water storage. Different tree species exhibit varying forms and sizes of buttress roots, depending on their growth habit, environment, and genetic factors.