The cambium is primarily responsible for plant growth, functioning as a source of undifferentiated stem cells that divide to produce new plant tissues, increasing the plant's width (secondary growth).
Functions of the Cambium Explained
The cambium is a crucial layer of actively dividing cells located beneath the bark of woody plants. Its main functions include:
- Secondary Growth: The cambium is responsible for secondary growth, which is the increase in a plant's girth or diameter. This is in contrast to primary growth, which is the increase in length.
- Production of Xylem and Phloem: The cambium produces two types of vascular tissues:
- Secondary Xylem (wood): This tissue transports water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant. The vast majority of what we call wood is secondary xylem produced by the cambium.
- Secondary Phloem (inner bark): This tissue transports sugars produced during photosynthesis from the leaves to other parts of the plant.
- Cell Differentiation: Cambium cells differentiate into specialized cells that form the xylem and phloem. This process ensures that the plant has the necessary transport systems to survive and grow.
- Wound Healing: The cambium also plays a role in wound healing. When a tree is damaged, the cambium can produce callus tissue to cover the wound and protect the tree from infection.
Types of Cambium
There are two main types of cambium:
- Vascular Cambium: This is the cambium described above, which produces secondary xylem and phloem.
- Cork Cambium (phellogen): This cambium produces the cork cells that form the outer bark of a tree, providing protection against damage and water loss.
Importance of Cambium
The cambium is essential for the survival and growth of woody plants. Without it, trees would not be able to grow in diameter, transport water and nutrients effectively, or heal wounds. This makes the cambium vital for the health and longevity of forests and other plant ecosystems.
