Plant Tissues

Core concept

Xylem, a complex tissue, transports water and minerals from roots to leaves and also provides mechanical support to the plant, while phloem transports food (glucose) produced during photosynthesis to all parts of the plant. Parenchyma, the most common simple tissue, often stores food and water and can sometimes contain chlorophyll for photosynthesis (called chlorenchyma). Understanding these tissue types explains how plants grow, transport nutrients, and maintain structural support without a skeleton.