suberized

Suberized refers to plant tissues that have become impregnated with suberin, a hydrophobic biopolymer deposited in the cell walls. Suberin acts as a barrier to water and solutes and to pathogen ingress, contributing to protective tissues such as the cork (periderm) and the endodermis of roots.

In cork, suberization occurs as part of secondary growth. The cork cambium, or phellogen, produces phellem (cork) cells that deposit suberin, die at maturity, and form a durable, impermeable outer layer. Suberized cork cells are typically dead at maturity and filled with air, providing insulation and protection.

In roots and stems, suberization of the endodermis or cortical cells forms suberin lamellae that create a barrier to apoplastic transport and help regulate water and nutrient uptake. Suberized tissues can also form in response to wounding, drought, or pathogen attack, contributing to wound sealing and defense.

Suberin itself is a complex polymer with an aliphatic domain—long-chain fatty acids, ω-hydroxy acids, and α,ω-dicarboxylic acids—and an aromatic domain containing phenolic components. The term suberized describes the state of cells in which suberin deposition has occurred, yielding a hydrophobic, protective cell wall layer.

In botany and plant physiology, suberization is a key adaptation for desiccation resistance and protection against environmental stress. It also has economic relevance in cork production and in the formation of protective wood tissues.