Structure and Function of Plants

Plant anatomy and physiology and a broad understanding of basic plant processes are of primary importance to a basic understanding of plant science. These areas serve as the first important building blocks in a variety of fields of study, including botany, plant biology, and horticulture. Structure and Function of Plants will serve as a text aimed at undergraduates in the plant sciences that will provide an accurate overview of complex plant processes as well as details essential to a basic understanding of plant anatomy and physiology. Presented in an engaging style with full-color illustrations, Structure and Function of Plants will appeal to undergraduates, faculty, extension faculty, and members of Master Gardener programs.

Preface ix

Acknowledgments xi

1 The plant cell 1

2 Plant meristems and tissues 18

3 Plant roots 36

4 Plant stems 55

5 Plant leaves and translocation 71

6 Reproduction in flowering plants 89

7 Plant nutrition 106

8 Plant–water relations 124

9 Macromolecules and enzyme activity 141

10 Photosynthesis 158

11 Respiration 178

12 Environmental regulation of plant development 195

13 Hormonal regulation of plant development 215

14 Secondary plant products 235

Glossary 255

References 273

Index 277

“The book is clearly written, up-to-date, extensively illustrated (frequently in color), and includes selected references and a glossary.” (CHOICE, October 2009)

"You will find much of value here." (Annals of Botany, September 2009)

Jennifer W. MacAdam, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor specializing in the area of Plant Physiology in the Department of Plants, Soils, and Climate at Utah State University. The Structure and Function of Plants provides an important introduction and overview of the anatomy and physiology of plants. The chapters are designed to provide the reader with valuable insight into how plants work and respond to their growing environment. The information is presented in a user-friendly format that provides thorough explanations of key plant structures and how they interact with their environments to survive and flourish.

The Structure and Function of Plants opens with descriptive chapters that acquaint readers with key plant structures such as roots, stems, leaves, and flowers. The remaining chapters describe the inner workings of plant life, looking at how plants extract water and nutrients from the soil, convert sunlight into carbohydrates, and manage to survive and reproduce while rooted in one spot. Each chapter is highly illustrated with vibrant full-color images that aid in reinforcing and demonstrating key concepts.

Providing a unique coverage of the basics of plant anatomy and physiology, The Structure and Function of Plants, is a valuable resource for introductory students, professionals, and plant enthusiasts.