Features of xylem vessels

• Xylem vessels have:

  • They transport water and minerals, and also serve to provide structural support
  • They are long cylinders made of dead tissue with open ends, therefore they can form a continuous column.
  • Xylem vessels also contain pits which enable water to move sideways between the vessels.
  • They are thickened with lignin, which is deposited in spiral patterns to enable the plant to remain flexible
  • Water can only flow upwards