The hypocotyl is the part of the plant embryo that connects the radicle (embryonic root) to the cotyledons (embryonic leaves). It is responsible for anchoring the embryo in the seed and for providing support and transport of nutrients to the developing plant. In the germination process, the hypocotyl helps to push the cotyledons out of the soil and into the sunlight, facilitating the establishment of photosynthesis and growth of the seedling.
