Plant cells primarily grow in specialized regions of the plant called meristems. These are the areas where new cells are produced.
Understanding Meristems
Meristems are crucial for plant growth because they contain actively dividing cells that give rise to all other plant tissues. According to the provided reference:
The new cells are usually produced in special regions called meristems...
These new cells are initially small, with thin and extensible primary cell walls that allow them to expand to their final size.
Key Aspects of Plant Cell Growth:
- Meristems are the source: New cells originate in meristems.
- Small initial size: Newly formed cells are relatively small.
- Thin cell walls: Primary cell walls are thin and flexible, facilitating growth.
- Expansion: Cells grow significantly after being produced.
Types of Meristems
While the question specifically asks about where plant cells grow generally, understanding the different types of meristems helps provide a fuller context:
- Apical Meristems: These are found at the tips of roots and shoots, responsible for primary growth (increasing length).
- Lateral Meristems: These are located in the stems and roots, leading to secondary growth (increasing thickness).
- Intercalary Meristems: Located at the nodes of some plants, these contribute to growth in these particular regions.
Practical Example
Think of a tree. The new cells that allow it to grow taller come from apical meristems at the tips of its branches, while the cells that make the trunk thicker come from lateral meristems in the stem.
Summary
| Area of Growth | Description |
|---|---|
| Meristems | Specialized regions where new plant cells are produced. |
In essence, new plant cells, which are small and have thin walls, are generated in meristems, allowing for the plant to grow and develop.
