phloem parenchyma

plant anatomy

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July 2, 2026

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Phloem parenchyma refers to the unspecialized, vertically arranged parenchyma cells found within the phloem of plants. Parenchyma cells are a fundamental type of plant tissue characterized by thin walls and adaptability to various functions, including photosynthesis, secretion, and food storage.12

Within the phloem, these parenchyma cells, sometimes called bast parenchyma, work alongside sieve elements and phloem fibers. They play a role in the transport of food substances throughout the plant, particularly near the finer branches and terminations of sieve tubes. These cells are essential for the overall function of the phloem, which is responsible for distributing nutrients produced during photosynthesis to all parts of the plant.13

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phloem
Phloem parenchyma cells, called transfer cells and border parenchyma cells, are located near the finest branches and terminations of sieve tubes in leaf veinlets, where they also function in the transport of foods. Companion cells, or albuminous cells in non-flowering vascular plants, are another specialized…
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Phloem parenchyma cells, called transfer cells and border parenchyma cells, are located near the finest branches and terminations of sieve tubes in leaf veinlets, where they also function in the transport of foods. Companion cells, or albuminous cells in non-flowering vascular plants, are another specialized…
Read More