What are the Different Parts of a Plant
2. Stems
3. Leaves
4. Flowers
5. Fruits
A typical diagram of a plant body consists of three parts: 1) roots, 2) stems, and 3) leaves, each having specialized functions. Apart from these basic parts, a flowering plant also contains 4) flowers and 5) fruits. The root system covers the underground parts of a plant, which include the roots, tubers, and rhizomes, whereas the shoot system consists of parts found above the ground, such as leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits.
1. Roots
It is the part that lies below the surface of the soil. The top part of a root (root apex) is covered by a covering known as root cap. Functions
Absorbing water and minerals from the soilStoring food for future useProducing plant growth hormonesAnchoring the plant firmly to the soil and providing supportDeveloping new plants from the roots of the old plant (vegetative reproduction)
Functions
Providing strength and support to buds, flowers, leaves, and fruitsStoring food mainly in the form of starchTransporting food, water, and minerals to all parts of the plant bodyDeveloping new plants from the stem of the old plant (vegetative reproduction)
Functions
Making food for the plant with the help of sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water through photosynthesisHelping in reproduction such as in Bryophyllum, a group of sprout leaf plantsHelping in evaporation from the aerial parts of the plant by transpiration
Apart from these main functions, leaves of some plants are modified to form tendrils, that help in climbing (e.g., pea plant) or spines, helping in protection (e.g., cactus). Some leaves may turn fleshy to store food (e.g., onion plant). a) Sepals: Green parts of a flower found below the petals that protect flower buds from injury. b) Petals: Colorful parts of a flower found above the sepals that help in pollination. c) Stamens: Consists of an anther and a filament. They are the male reproductive part of a plant producing male sex cells or spermatia. d) Carpel: Consists of stigma, style, and ovary. They are the female reproductive part of a plant producing female sex cells or ovules. Functions
Helping in the sexual reproduction of plantsStimulating pollination in plants and fertilization of the ovule
Functions
Protecting the growing seedsHelping in the dispersal of seeds and thus in plant reproduction
Thus although each part of a plant has its specific functions, they all work in combination to provide distinct advantages in plant growth and survival.
