State 5 functions of collenchyma tissue.
Collenchyma cells are elongated cells with irregularly thick cell walls that provide support and structure. Their thick cell walls are composed of the compounds cellulose and pectin. These cells are often found under the epidermis, or the outer layer of cells in young stems and in leaf veins.
Functions:
• It provides mechanical strength to the petiole, leaves and stem of young dicot plants.
• Collenchyma confers flexibility to various parts of the plant like petiole and stem, allowing for easy bending without breakage.
• It allows for growth and elongation of plant organs.
• Collenchyma present in leaves also prevents them from tearing.
• The living cells of collenchyma store food.
• Collenchyma when containing chlorophyll performs the function of photosynthesis.