Guidance

Parenchyma is a thin-walled, actively dividing cell that makes up the inside of many non-woody plant structures such as stems, roots, and leaves. Parenchyma tissue is a type of simple permanent tissue that is fundamental to all plants.

The term ‘parenchyma’ has originated from the Greek word ‘Para’ which means beside and ‘Enchyma’ meaning inclusion.

They are mainly found in the soft, green parts of the plants such as ground tissues in stems, cortex of roots, mesophyll of leaves, and the endosperm of seeds. Parenchyma cells are also located in flowers and fruits.

Characteristics:
1. Living cells, capable of division and that give rise to all other cell types
2. Polygonal in shape and sometimes oval or spherical with an isodiametric symmetry
3. Has a length of 0.1–0.2 mm and a width of 0.01–0.05 mm
4. The cells are tightly packed or may have small intercellular spaces
5. The cell wall is usually thin and made up of cellulose and hemicellulose
6. Comprises of a centrally located large vacuole
They have a prominent nucleus and cytoplasm that holds other organelles in place