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Epidermis
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leaf epidermis A labeled diagram of a typical root cross section shows layers from the outside inward: root hairs, epidermis, cortex, endodermis, pericycle, and a central cylinder containing primary xylem and primary phloem. stem tissues primary and secondary growth
Explore the anatomy of a plant's mesophyll to understand how chlorophyll generates a green appearance
Compare differences in the leaf structures and environments of flowering dicots, ferns, pine trees, and cacti
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Related Topics:
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prickle
root hair
hypodermis
trichome
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leaf epidermis
leaf epidermis Micrograph of leaf epidermis (magnified 40x).

Epidermis

plant tissue
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Epidermis, in botany, outermost, protoderm-derived layer of cells covering the stem, root, leaf, flower, fruit, and seed parts of a plant. The epidermis and its waxy cuticle provide a protective barrier against mechanical injury, water loss, and infection. Various modified epidermal cells regulate transpiration, increase water absorption, and secrete substances.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.