What are fibrous roots?

Fibrous roots are thin roots with fine hairs that form a dense network of roots within the soil. The purpose of fibrous roots is to absorb nutrients and water for the plant from the surrounding soil.

Fibrous roots anchor plants into the ground to prevent them from falling over in the wind. Fibrous roots are also effective and useful in the prevention of soil erosion in locations like hillsides, bunds and embankments by anchoring plants into the top layer of the soil. Example: Plants such as grasses are particularly efficient in stabilizing soil erosion.