 The root structure of B. prionotes exhibits two common environmental adaptations . Firstly , this species is phreatophytic , that is , its long taproot extends down to the water table , securing it a continuous water supply through the dry summer months , when surface water is generally unavailable . This not only helps ensure survival over summer , but allows plants to grow then . Though the supply of water is the taproot 's primary function , the ground water obtained typically contains ionic concentrations of chloride , sodium , magnesium , calcium and potassium that are adequate for the plant 's nutritional needs . 
