Functions of Plants Stems and Leaves A94-A97

Stems Stems: Hold the plant up Support the leaves Carry water and food to other parts of the plant

Stems Stems can be: Soft and green Flexible Stiff and woody Stems contain narrow tubes that carry water, nutrients and food. Xylem – transport water and nutrients Phloem – transport food

Each year, trees produce a new layer of xylem, forming a growth ring. Phloem forms the bark of a tree.

Leaves Leaves are the food factories for trees. They use water and nutrients from the soil, carbon dioxide from the air, and energy from sunlight to make food. The process is called photosynthesis. Oxygen is produced which plants release into the air.

Leaves Chlorophyll helps plants use light energy to produce sugars. Chlorophyll gives leaves their green color. Inside a leaf are layers of cells called chloroplasts. This is where the food-making process occurs. Leaves have tiny holes called stomata. Carbon dioxide enters the leaf, and oxygen and water leave it. Leaves have veins which bring water and nutrients to the chloroplasts and take sugars from them.