The below-ground layer
The Rhizosphere Layer
The rhizosphere layer focuses on useful roots, tubers, bulbs, and other below-ground plant structures. Its working space overlaps physically with every layer above it.
Role in the design
What this layer contributes
Rhizosphere plants can produce underground crops, store energy, occupy soil niches, and influence soil structure. Harvest method and root competition matter as much as visible spacing.
Living library
Explore rhizosphere plants
24 records in this layer
Biennial
Beet
Beta vulgaris
USDA zones 2–11
Perennial
Black Salsify
Pseudopodospermum hispanicum
USDA zones 5–9
Biennial
Burdock Root
Arctium minus
USDA zones 3–10
Biennial
Celeriac
Apium graveolens var rapaceum
USDA zones 3–9
Perennial
Chinese Artichoke
Stachys affinis
USDA zones 4–8
Annual
Daikon
Raphanus sativus var longipinnatus
USDA zones 2–11
Perennial
Earth Chestnut
Bunium bulbocastanum
USDA zones 4–8
Perennial
Elephant Garlic
Allium ampeloprasum var ampeloprasum
USDA zones 5–10
Perennial
Fragrant Flowered Garlic
Allium ramosum
USDA zones 6–9
Perennial
Garlic
Allium sativum
USDA zones 4–9
Perennial
Garlic Chives
Allium tuberosum
USDA zones 3–9
Perennial
Nodding Onion
Allium cernuum
USDA zones 4–8