Plant organs
Vegetative organs (help the plant grow and survive)
Root – Anchors the plant, absorbs water and minerals, and stores food.
Stem – Supports the plant and transports water, minerals, and food.
Leaves – Carry out photosynthesis, gas exchange, and transpiration.
Reproductive organs (help the plant reproduce)
Flower – Produces seeds through sexual reproduction.
Fruit – Protects the seeds and helps in seed dispersal.
Seed – Contains the embryo, which grows into a new plant.
Plant tissues
A plant tissue is a group of similar cells that work together to perform a particular function.
Plants have two main types of tissues:
1. Meristematic Tissue
Meristematic tissues contain cells that keep dividing and help the plant grow.
Apical Meristem
Function: Increases the length of the plant.
Found: At the tips of roots and shoots.
Lateral Meristem
Function: Increases the thickness of stems and roots.
Found: Along the sides of stems and roots.
Intercalary Meristem
Function: Helps the plant grow, especially after parts are cut or damaged.
Found: Near nodes and the bases of leaves, especially in grasses.
2. Permanent Tissue
Permanent tissues are made of cells that have developed special jobs.
Parenchyma
Function: Stores food and water; some cells also carry out photosynthesis.
Found: In roots, stems, leaves, fruits, and other soft parts.
Collenchyma
Function: Gives flexible support to growing parts.
Found: Just below the epidermis, especially in young stems and leaf stalks.
Sclerenchyma
Function: Gives strength and support.
Found: In stems, roots, leaves, and around vascular bundles.
Xylem
Function: Carries water and minerals from the roots mainly upward to the rest of the plant.
Found: In the roots, stems, and leaves.
Special feature: Its cell walls are strengthened by lignin.
Phloem
Function: Carries food (sugars) made by the leaves to other parts of the plant.
Found: In the roots, stems, and leaves.
Epidermis
Function: Protects the plant and helps reduce water loss.
Found: On the outer surface of roots, stems, and leaves.
Cork
Function: Protects older parts of the plant and reduces water loss.
Found: On the outside of older stems and roots.