Plant Tissues and Organs

What is a plant? A plant is a multicellular eukaryote that - has cellulose in the cell walls, stores food in the form of starch, has a cuticle- a waxy, waterproof coating on the stems and leaves. Cuticles help to prevent water loss

Plant Tissues Dermal- surrounds plant Vascular- transports food and water - Xylem- moves WATER UP - Phloem- flows FOOD (SUGAR) DOWN Ground- photosynthesis, storage, support Meristematic- area where growth occurs

Roots Function: Most grow underground take in water and nutrients from the soil Anchor the plant in the soil Sometimes act as storage (radishes, carrots, etc) Most grow underground Contains vascular tissue (xylem & phloem), ground tissue (cortex), dermal tissue and meristematic tissue (root tips)

Root Cross-Section

Stems Function: provides support for growth transports water, food and minerals to and from roots and leaves Contains all tissue types

Leaves Function: usually the site of photosynthesis Increased surface area to allow maximum absorption of sunlight Contains guard cells & stomata sites of gas exchange

Reproduction Mosses and ferns use spores All other plants produce seeds- contain the embryo, food source, and a protective coat Flowers are the reproductive structure in highly evolved plants Most flowers contain both male and female reproductive parts (complete flower)