Major Tissues of Roots, Stems, and Leaves

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the major tissues of plants, the differences between monocots and dicots, and specific anatomical features.

Dermal tissue

Contains the epidermal cells that make up the epidermis, the outermost covering of non-woody plants, which has specialized functions.

Ground tissue

Consists of parenchyma and sclerenchyma cells; makes up the bulk of the plant and includes cortex, pith, and mesophyll.

Vascular tissue

Consists of xylem, which transports water and minerals, and phloem, which transports organic nutrients.

Xylem

Transports water and minerals using dead, hollow cells called vessel elements and tracheids.

Phloem

Transports organic nutrients using sieve-tube members and companion cells.

Monocots

Plants that include grasses, lilies, and palms, characterized by having one cotyledon.

Dicots

Plants that include most flowering plants, characterized by having two cotyledons.

Petiole

The stalk that attaches the leaf blade to the stem, present in dicots but not in monocots.

Taproot system

A root system in dicots that penetrates deep into the soil.

Fibrous root system

A root system in monocots that spreads out through the soil.

Floral parts

In dicots, floral parts are present in multiples of four or five; in monocots, they are present in multiples of three.