Plant Tissues
Plant tissues are grouped according to their function.
Protective tissues protect the plant from harm. The epidermis of the plant secretes the cuticle -- a waxy layer for protection. In woody plants, the cork forms the bark.
Storage tissues store the plants food and water supplies. Parenchyma is a thin walled tissue in the leaves. Collenchyma is thick walled support tissue. Schlerenchyma is very thick support tissue that surrounds the veins of leaves, stems, and roots.
Vascular tissues are responsible for the transport of water and nutrients to different parts of the plant. Xylem is made of dead cells and conducts water and dissolved minerals. Phloem is composed of dead sieve tube cells and living companion cells. It transports organic material.
All of the plants growth occurs in the growth tissues. Meristem is responsible for primary growth and is found at the tips of roots and stems. If cut off, growth will cease. Cambium is responsible for secondary growth and is only found in dicots and conifers between the xylem and phloem.
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