As the tree grows, the outer layers of bark (rhytidome) crack and slough off. The inner bark (functional phloem) is alive, but the wood (xylem) in the center may become non-conducting "heartwood," often colored with tannins and resins, while the outer "sapwood" still conducts water.
At the core of every plant is a complex cellular structure. Unlike animal cells, plant cells possess a rigid made of cellulose for structural support, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and a large central vacuole that maintains turgor pressure to keep the plant upright. plant anatomy
Understanding plant anatomy is essential for various applications: As the tree grows, the outer layers of
: Actively dividing cells that allow the plant to grow in height (apical) and girth (lateral). Dermal Tissue Unlike animal cells, plant cells possess a rigid
One of the most impressive feats in plant anatomy is – the increase in girth. This occurs in gymnosperms (conifers) and dicot angiosperms (woody plants) via two lateral meristems:
Phloem transports the products of photosynthesis (primarily sucrose) from sources (leaves) to sinks (roots, fruits, growing tips). It consists of: