Meristematic tissues consist of actively dividing cells and are responsible for primary and secondary growth in plants. These tissues can be classified into three types:
- Apical Meristems: Found at the tips of roots and shoots, they are responsible for the vertical growth of the plant. - Lateral Meristems: These include the vascular cambium and the cork cambium, which contribute to the increase in girth or thickness of the plant. - Intercalary Meristems: Located at the base of leaves or internodes, they facilitate regrowth in grasses and other monocots.