Plant Parts and Functions

Parts of The Plant

Roots2 Types of Root Systems

Taproot System

Primary root grows down from the stem with some small secondary roots forming

Examples: Carrots & Turnips

RootsFibrous System

Small lateral roots that spread out just below the soil’s surface

Examples: Corn & Beans

Parts of the Root

Epidermis

Cortex

Outermost layer of cells

Tissue inside epidermis that stores starch and other substances necessary for the growth of the root

Parts of the RootRoot Cap

Root Hairs

Vascular Tissue

Provides protection for the root tip

Site of absorption

Within cortex, contains cells that transport water, nutrients, and minerals to all parts of the plant

Root Functions

1. Absorption of water and nutrients

(performed by root hairs)

3. Anchor plant to maintain stability

Roots have 4 primary functions

2. Transportation of water and nutrients to stem

4. Store food and water

Leaves

Blade

Main body of leaf

Petiole

Attaches blade to stem

Midrib

Large central vein

LeavesApex

Tip of leaf

Base

Attaches to petiole, if petiole is absent attaches directly to stem

Margin

Edge of leaf

LeavesEpidermis

Responsible for gas and water exchange

Stomata

Opening in epidermis where gas and water exchange

Mesophyll

Middle layer of leaf where photosynthesis occurs

Important Functions of Leaves

Photosynthesis

Process that plants use to produce their food

6CO2 + 6H2OC6H1206 + 6 O2

Transpiration

Loss of water and exchange of carbon dioxide

Parts of the Stem

NodeAreas where side branches and leaves develop from

Internode

Area between nodes

LenticlesSmall holes located in the stem (breathing pores)

Functions of the Stem

1. Transports water and nutrients from roots to leaves

2. Supports leaves, fruits and flowers

3. Food Storage

Fruit Classification

Aggregate

Develop from a single flower with many ovaries

Examples: Strawberries & Tulips

Fruit Classification

Multiple

Fruit develops from a group of tightly clustered flowers

Examples: Pineapples & Figs

Fruit Classification

Simple

Develop from a single ovary

Examples: Cherries & Tomatoes

Fruit’s FunctionSite of seed production

Flower Parts

Pistil

Female part of plant

Consists of:

•Stigma

•Style

•Ovary

Flower Parts

Stamen

Male reproductive organ

Consists of:

•Anther

•Stamen

Flower PartsPetals

Highly colored part of the flower, may contain perfume and/or nectar glands

Sepals

Small green structures on the base of a flower that protect the flower bud

Flower Classification

Complete flower Has all four male and female parts

Incomplete flower Missing one of the four male or female parts

Perfect flower Has stamens and pistils

Imperfect flower Lacking either stamens or pistils

Flower FunctionSexual Reproduction is the flowers sole function

Pollination by:

Wind

Insects and Birds

Parts of the Seed

Endosperm

Tissue that provides nutrition for the developing seed

Cotyledon

Food storage tissue

Embryo

Growing part of seed

Parts of the Seed

Seedcoat

Protective outer covering of the seed

Scutellum

Absorbs the endosperm