Xylem is a type of plant tissue that transports water and minerals from the roots to the other parts of the plant such as the stems and leaves. It is one of the two types of vascular tissue in plants, with the other being phloem. Xylem is composed of several different types of cells, including vessel elements and tracheids, which are long, hollow cells that form the main transport conduits. These cells are dead at maturity and have thick, lignified cell walls that provide support and help in conducting water efficiently. Xylem also plays a role in providing structural support to the plant.
