Kambiumissa

Kambiumissa is a term that refers to the cambium, a layer of actively dividing cells found in vascular plants. This meristematic tissue is responsible for secondary growth, leading to an increase in the diameter of stems and roots. There are two types of cambium: vascular cambium and cork cambium.

The vascular cambium is located between the xylem and phloem in dicotyledonous plants and gymnosperms. It produces new xylem cells towards the inside of the stem or root and new phloem cells towards the outside. This process is what forms wood (secondary xylem) and secondary phloem. The annual rings seen in tree trunks are a result of the seasonal variations in the activity of the vascular cambium. In warmer months, it produces larger xylem cells, while in cooler months, it produces smaller, denser cells.

The cork cambium, also known as the phellogen, is another type of lateral meristem. It arises in the outer layers of the stem or root and produces cork cells (phellem) to the outside and phelloderm to the inside. Cork cells are typically dead at maturity and their cell walls are suberized, providing protection and preventing water loss. Together, the cork cambium, cork, and phelloderm form the periderm, which replaces the epidermis in woody plants as they grow in thickness. This secondary growth mechanism is crucial for the structural support and survival of many perennial plants.