A plant is composed of two main types of tissue: meristematic tissue and permanent tissue. A vascular plant consists of two organ systems: the shoot system and the root system.

As growth occurs, meristematic tissue differentiates into permanent tissue, which is categorized as either simple or complex. The root system supports the plant and is usually underground.

plant — composed of two main types of tissue: meristematic tissue and permanent tissue. permanent tissue — plant tissue composed of cells that are no longer actively dividing. shoot system — aboveground portion of the plant; consists of nonreproductive plant parts, such as leaves and stems, and reproductive parts, such as flowers and fruits. dermal tissue — protective plant tissue covering the outermost part of the plant; controls gas exchange.