10. Xylem

In vascular plants, xylem is the transport tissue that carries water and minerals from the roots to leaves and shoots. The channels also provide support for the plant and store water that is not yet needed. Unlike phloem, xylem can only carry its contents in an upward direction. Xyla take in water when a loss of moisture in the leaves via transpiration creates a negative pressure that draws water up from the soil. In the transvaal daisy seen here, the xyla run lengthwise along the inside of the stem.