Plant Cells and Plant Tissues

Types of Plant Cells:

• Parenchyma Cells. These cells are the most general of plant cells. They consist of thin flexible cell walls. They contain a large central vacuole and can carry out most of the metabolic functions of the plant. Mesophyll cells of the leaf are parenchyma cells. The fleshy tissue of most fruits also contain much parenchyma.
• Collenchyma Cells. These cells have a much thicker primary wall than the parenchyma cell. Grouped in strands or cylinders they support young plants.
• Sclerenchyma Cells. Function in support of the plant. They contain a thick secondary wall containing lignin. For all intent and purpose these cells function best when dead.
• Tracheids. These are water conducting elements. These cells are dead and are found along with vessel elements making up the plants xylem.
• Sieve-tubes. These function in carrying food throughout the plant. They are kept alive and nourished by companion cells. These are found in the plants phloem.

Tissue Types:

• Dermal Tissue. generally a single layer of cells. They are tightly packed and covered with a transparent, waxy, material called the cuticle.
• Vascular Tissue. functions in support and transportation of food and water throughout the plant.
• Ground Tissue. makes up the bulk of a young plant. It fills the space between the dermal and the vascular tissues.