Meristematic tissue

Definition

Meristematic tissue is a type of plant tissue consisting of undifferentiated cells capable of cell division. It is responsible for the growth and development of new organs and tissues in plants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Meristematic tissues are classified into three types: apical, intercalary, and lateral meristems.
2. Apical meristems are found at the tips of roots and shoots and are responsible for primary growth.
3. Lateral meristems, such as the vascular cambium and cork cambium, contribute to secondary growth by increasing the thickness of stems and roots.
4. Intercalary meristems are located at the base of leaves or internodes and allow for regrowth in grasses after cutting.
5. Cells in meristematic tissue have thin walls, dense cytoplasm, and large nuclei but lack vacuoles.

Review Questions

• What are the three types of meristematic tissues?
• What is the main function of apical meristems?
• How do lateral meristems contribute to a plant's growth?

Related terms

Apical Meristem:

A region at the tip of a plant shoot or root that allows for primary growth

Lateral Meristem: A type of meristem that contributes to secondary growth by increasing stem or root diameter

Vascular Cambium: A specific type of lateral meristem that forms new xylem and phloem cells