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amphicarpous

/ˌæmfɪˈkɑrpəs/
IPA guide

Amphicarpous describes plants that grow two different types of fruits. This strategy gives the plant a better chance of having offspring that grow to adulthood.

Amphicarpous plants most often have one fruit that releases its seeds into the air, and one that releases them underground. The ones underground have a better chance of growing without being eaten, but the ones in the air can go longer distances, spreading the species to brand new places. The word comes from the Greek amphi- meaning "both" and karpos meaning "fruit."

Definitions of amphicarpous
  1. adjective
    (botany) producing two different types of fruit, with one usually having a different form or ripening at a different time than the other
    synonyms: amphicarpic
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