IPA: /frɪˈɛtəˌfaɪt/
KK: /frɪˈætəˌfaɪt/
A type of plant that has deep roots and gets its water from underground sources, like the water table.
The phreatophyte thrives in arid regions where it can access groundwater.
Phreatophyte is formed from "phreato-" (from Greek "phreatos", meaning well or spring) and "phyte" (from Greek "phyton", meaning plant). The word refers to a plant that has roots extending down to the water table, drawing moisture from underground sources such as wells or springs.
Think of 'phreato-' as relating to a 'well' or 'spring', and 'phyte' as a 'plant'. This helps you remember that a phreatophyte is a plant that draws water from underground sources.