(hypoderm) One or more layers of cells lying immediately beneath the epidermis in the leaves and other organs of many plants, differing morphologically from the underlying tissues. A true hypodermis develops from the 'ground meristem and therefore has an origin different from that of the epidermis as is evidenced by the noncoincidence of the anticlinal walls of the two tissues. However, the term is often used to refer to the layer or layers of cells immediately inside the outermost layer, regardless of their derivation. The hypodermis often contains large quantities of 'sclerenchyma to enable it to act as a strengthening tissue, as in the leaves of many conifers. See also exodermis. |
