amphicarpous

American  

[am-fi-kahr-puhs] / ˌæm fɪˈkɑr pəs /

Or amphicarpic

adjective

Botany.

1. producing two kinds of fruit that differ either in form or in time of ripening.

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Etymology

Origin of amphicarpous

First recorded in 1865–70; amphi- + -carpous

Explanation

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."