Below is a microscopic cross-section of a typical root (taken from a dicotyledonous plant)
- Distribution of tissues may differ between different types of plants according to functional requirements
Click on the above image to show / hide labels
Key Features:
- The outer layer (epidermis) may have protrusions called root hairs to increase available surface area for material exchange
- The central region is called the stele and is surrounded by an endodermis with a Casparian strip (controls water transport)
- The pericycle / cambium provides strength to the root and is also responsible for the development of lateral roots
- The vascular bundle is located centrally to withstand stretching forces and allow for material transport to be controlled