The correct option is D All of the above
The epidermis (outer most layer) is the first layer of the plant body that acts as the first line of defense against various types of harmful objects. It protects the other parts of the body from injuries, bacterial attacks etc. Therefore epidermis is known as a protective tissue.
Eg: In the desert, plants are covered with waxy cuticle layer to avoid excess water loss through transpiration due to heat.