the above ground parts (leaves and stems) of deciduous species die down when the bulb or corm enters dormancy. the plants thus survive periods that are unfavourable for growth by retreating underground. this is particularly useful in grasslands and fynbos, which are adapted to regular burning in the dry season. at this time the plants are dormant and their bulbs or corms are able to survive the heat of the fires underground. veld fires clear the soil surface of competing vegetation, as well as fertilise it with ash. with the arrival of the first rains, the dormant corms are ready to burst into growth, sending up flowers and stems before they can be shaded out by other vegetation. many grassland and fynbos irids flower best after fires and some fynbos species will only flower in the season after a fire.