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Apical meristems are those which occupy the apices of the stem, root and often

of the leaves of vascular plants. The growth in length of the plant together with
the formation of the primary body is the main functions of the apical meristems.

Intercalary meristems are the meristem which is usually at the bases of leaves
and internodes in grasses. Actually these meristems are also a part of the apical

meristem and have separated from the apex by the permanent tissue layers.

Lateral meristems are seen towards the lateral side of an organ. The initials of
this meristem divide chiefly through a line parallel to the surface. This meristem,

owing to its growth and differentiation, effects secondary growth in thickness of
stem and root.

Meristematic tissues are seen mainly
at the apices of plant organs and are

characterised by their constant power
of cell division. They divide and re

divide continuously and form new
cells. But as assume a permanent
form. They lose their capacity for

division and give permanent tissues.
Thus permanent tissues are those

which are actually derived give
meristems and occur as permanent

structures by losing their capacity for
cell division.

On the basis of its constitution the permanent tissue is grouped into simple and
complex. The simple tissue is composed of similar cells and hence it is homogenous in

constitution. The cells are similar in their structure and function. Parenchyma,

collenchyma and sclerenchyma are the important simple permanent tissues in plants.

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