IGCSEScienceCambridge (CIE)Combined ScienceBiologyRevision Notes8. Transport in PlantsTransport in PlantsXylem & Phloem

Xylem & Phloem (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Combined Science: Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 0653

Written by: Lára Marie McIvor

Updated on 13 January 2026

The xylem & phloem

What is the function of the xylem and phloem

Plants contain two types of transport vessel:
- Xylem vessels – transport water and minerals (pronounced: zi-lem) from the roots to the stem and leaves
- Phloem vessels – transport food materials (mainly sucrose and amino acids) made by the plant from photosynthesising leaves to non-photosynthesising regions in the roots and stem (pronounced: flow-em)
These vessels are arranged throughout the root, stem and leaves in groups called vascular bundles

Xylem and phloem diagram

Vascular tissue in a dicotyledonous plant

Examiner Tips and Tricks

If you are asked to identify the xylem or phloem in a diagram showing a cross-section of a root, stem or leaf just remember that xylem is always on the inside and phloem is always on the outside.

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