[Gelatinous bast fibres in the phloem of some gymnosperms]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026

Visualizing Lignification Dynamics in Plants with Click Chemistry: Dual Labeling is BLISS!
Published on: January 26, 2018
1Institut für Holzbiologie und Holzschutz der Bundesforschungsanstalt für Forst-und Holzwirtschaft, Reinbek bei Hamburg.
Abstract:
In the secondary phloem of some gymnosperms an anomalous structure in the cell wall of bast fibres was observed. Light and electron microscopic investigations of the phloem of roots and branches showed that the bast fibres exhibit a gelatinous layer typical for the tension wood fibres of hardwoods. In Epon-embedded material this layer appears homogeneous, whereas in the case of methacrylate-embedding it presents a meshwork-like structure. While in the xylem of branches the compression wood elements occur only on the lower side, the gelatinous fibres of the secondary phloem in branches and roots are distributed all around.
Related Concept Videos
Cellulose and Pectic Polysaccharides
As a cell matures, its cell wall specializes according to its type. For example, the...
Plant Tissues
Fibrous Proteins
Phloem and Sugar Transport
Plant Cells and Tissues
Connective Tissue Fibers and Ground Substance

