Phreatophytes are the plants adapted to grow in

Phreatophytes are specialized plants adapted to arid environments where surface water is scarce [2]. These plants possess exceptionally long taproots that penetrate deep into the soil to access the water table or groundwater [1]. In desert ecosystems, they are distinguished from other xerophytes by their reliance on a permanent water supply from the zone of saturation rather than just surface moisture. This adaptation allows them to maintain high transpiration rates even during prolonged droughts [2]. Common examples include the mesquite tree and alfalfa, which can extend roots dozens of meters deep to survive in hyper-arid conditions. Their ability to exploit groundwater makes them highly effective at surviving in drylands and semi-arid climates where other vegetation might perish due to water stress [2].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/phreatophytes
2. [2] Certificate Physical and Human Geography , GC Leong (Oxford University press 3rd ed.) > Chapter 18: The Hot Desert and Mid-Latitude Desert Climate > Natural Vegetation > p. 176