Contrary to common misconceptions, a corm is not a bulb. Both are underground stems that swell up to store food for the plant when it’s dormant. However, unlike bulbs which have scales or fleshy leaves, corms are solid. This means that their growing tip (or bud) is located on the top, not at the center like in bulbs. Corms are covered by a tough skin and typically have thick and round roots growing from it.
Characteristics of Corms:
Corm Anatomy:
Corms are safeguarded by a protective layer called a tunic, derived from the remnants of past leaves. This covering plays a vital role, protecting the corm from threats like insects, dehydration, and burrowing animals. However, it’s the inside of the corm that truly differentiates it from bulbs. Unlike the layered, fleshy interior of bulbs, corms are solid. They’re densely packed with starch-rich cells that provide nutrients to the budding plant above.
The Life Cycle of Corms
On the upper surface of the corm, buds grow, giving birth to the plant’s leaves and flowers. In certain conditions, especially when the main growth point is compromised, corms can produce tiny offspring called cormels. These cormels play a dual role in both reproduction and survival, especially in areas where they face threats from natural predators.
Popular Corm-based Plants
Several plants owe their growth and survival to corms. Some well-known examples include gladiolus, crocus, and crocosmia. Certain species, like the gladiolus and Watsonia, even produce cormels in abundant numbers, enhancing their survival rates in predator-rich environments.
Planting & Nurturing Corms: Tips for the Green-Thumbed Geek
Conclusion
While corms may be underground and out of sight, they are definitely not out of mind for those who appreciate nature’s subtle intricacies.
