endodermis

[ en-doh-dur-mis ]

noun

, Botany.

1. a specialized tissue in the roots and stems of vascular plants, composed of a single layer of modified parenchyma cells forming the inner boundary of the cortex.

endodermis

/ ˌɛndəʊˈdɜːmɪs /

noun

1. botany the specialized innermost layer of cortex in roots and some stems, which controls the passage of water and dissolved substances between the cortex and stele

endodermis

/ ĕn′də-dûr′mĭs /

1. The innermost layer of the cortex that forms a sheath around the vascular tissue of roots and some stems. In the roots the endodermis helps regulate the intake of water and minerals into the vascular tissues from the cortex.

Word History and Origins

Origin of endodermis¹

First recorded in 1880–85; endo- + -dermis

Word History and Origins

Origin of endodermis¹

C19: from New Latin, from endo- + Greek derma skin

Example Sentences

Grafted walnuts show callus growth from the cambium, and also from the pith of stems and the endodermis of the root.

From Project Gutenberg