The epidermis is the outermost layer of the plant body and is made of a single layer of cells that are closely packed to each other without any intercellular spaces.
The epidermis has the following functions,
The epidermis protects the plant parts from infection as well as desiccation.
In dry places like desserts, the epidermis of the plants is relatively thicker, which protects against water loss.
The root hairs present in the epidermis help in absorbing minerals and water.
Epidermis also protects the plant body from mechanical injury.