The living parts of a tree include the leaves, buds, roots, and a thin layer of cells under the bark called the cambium.
While a tree appears solid and unchanging, only certain parts are actively living and growing. Most of the woody volume is actually composed of structural wood cells that are no longer alive. Let's break down the living components:
-
Leaves: These are the primary sites of photosynthesis, where the tree converts sunlight into energy. They are constantly growing and changing.
-
Buds: These contain undeveloped shoots, leaves, or flowers. They are the sites of future growth and development.
-
Roots: Roots are essential for absorbing water and nutrients from the soil. They also anchor the tree and are constantly growing and exploring the soil.
-
Cambium: This is a thin layer of cells located just beneath the bark. It's responsible for creating new wood (xylem) and bark (phloem), allowing the tree to grow wider each year. This is where the most significant growth activity happens in the trunk and branches.
In summary, while the vast majority of a tree's physical structure is composed of dead tissue providing support, the leaves, buds, roots, and cambium are the actively living and growing parts that sustain the tree.
