vascular tissue

Vascular tissue is a specialized plant tissue responsible for conducting water, minerals, and food throughout the plant. It is a defining characteristic of vascular plants, distinguishing them from nonvascular plants like bryophytes.12

Vascular tissue is organized into discrete strands called vascular bundles, which contain two main components:
* Xylem: This tissue conducts water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant and provides structural support. It is composed of nonliving cells called tracheary elements, such as tracheids and vessel elements, which are strengthened by lignin.3
* Phloem: This tissue transports sugars produced during photosynthesis from the leaves to other parts of the plant. It consists of living cells called sieve elements, along with fibers and parenchyma cells.4

Together, xylem and phloem form a central column known as the stele, enabling efficient transport and support for the plant's growth and development.52