It moves water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
Tracheids, vessels, xylem parenchyma, and xylem fibers are components of the angiosperm xylem.
The xylem of the gymnosperm lack vessels.
Tracheids and vessels have become lignified and are no longer alive. Xylem parenchyma cells have thin walls and are alive. Plants also benefit from the xylem's mechanical strength.