noun
- regions of plant tissue consisting of actively dividing cells that produce new growth
Usage: botanical term; plural of meristem
Examples
- The meristems at the tips of roots and shoots are responsible for primary growth.
- Apical meristems allow plants to grow taller and extend their roots deeper.
- Lateral meristems produce secondary growth, increasing the thickness of stems and roots.
- Scientists study meristems to understand how plants develop and grow.
- Damage to the meristems can severely affect a plant’s ability to grow.
- The cambium is one of the most important meristems in woody plants.