Xylem vs Phloem

The xylem and phloem work together to keep the plant healthy. Xylem provides structural support, while phloem distributes energy.

Xylem

Xylem is responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to other parts of the plant.

  • Transport: Water & minerals
  • Direction: Upward only
  • Structure: Dead, thick-walled cells
  • Location: Vascular Bundle

Phloem

Phloem transports nutrients, particularly sugars, from the leaves to other parts of the plant.

  • Transport: Nutrients (sugar)
  • Direction: Bidirectional
  • Structure: Living cells
  • Location: Vascular Bundle