Plant Cells

Root System

below-ground system that absorbs water/nutrients

Shoot System

above-ground system including stems

Dermal Tissue

outer protective layer that reduces water loss and protects the plant

Vascular Tissue

transport tissue that moves water

Ground Tissue

tissue responsible for support

Xylem

dead hollow tubes that transport water and minerals upward

Phloem

living tubes that move sugars in both directions

Why Xylem Cells Are Dead

being hollow allows water to flow upward without obstruction

How Phloem Moves Sugars

uses concentration gradients to send sugars where needed

Meristematic Cells

undifferentiated growth cells found at root and shoot tips

Fibrous Roots

thin branching roots forming a dense surface network

Taproot System

one main root with smaller branches used for absorption and storage

Root Pressure

water entering roots creates pressure that pushes water upward

Herbaceous Stems

green flexible stems that can photosynthesize

Woody Stems

thick bark-covered stems used for support and transport

Leaf Function

performs photosynthesis

Cuticle

waxy coating on leaves that prevents water loss

Guard Cells

cells that open and close stomata to control gas and water exchange

Stomata

small pores where CO₂ enters and O₂ exits

Photosynthesis (Leaf Role)

leaves capture sunlight to make sugars

Flower Function

reproductive organ producing pollen and eggs

Cone Function

conifer reproductive structures that produce pollen and eggs

Pollination

transfer of pollen from male to female structures

Fertilization

fusion of gametes to form seeds

Plant Vascular Analogy

xylem and phloem act like veins and arteries

Water Conservation Adaptations

cuticles and guard cells reduce water loss

Seed Production

result of pollination and fertilization creating new seeds