Xylem is a specialized tissue in vascular plants that performs the function of conducting water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves and other parts of the plant. It is a complex tissue made up of different components including vessels, tracheids, and xylem parenchyma cells. Xylem vessels are the main conducting cells responsible for transporting water and ions through the plant. They are elongated, hollow cells that are joined together end to end to form long tubes. Tracheids are narrower, less specialized cells that also conduct water and usually have tapered ends. Xylem parenchyma cells are living cells that have a storage and support function. Overall, xylem plays a crucial role in maintaining the plant's structure and distributing water and nutrients throughout the plant.
