Final answer:
The plant epidermis is composed of dermal tissue, which includes epidermal cells, stomata, guard cells, and trichomes, providing protection and mediating plant-environment interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The plant epidermis is made up of dermal tissue. This outer covering of the plant contains epidermal cells which form a protective barrier, playing a crucial role in a plant's interaction with its environment. The epidermis secretes a waxy substance called cuticle, which helps to waterproof and protect the plant above-ground parts. It includes specialized structures such as stomata (pores), which are involved in gas exchange, and are regulated by guard cells, as well as trichomes (hair-like structures) that can reduce water loss and help in other defensive functions.
Vascular tissue, on the other hand, is made up of xylem and phloem tissues which are responsible for the transport of water, minerals, and photosynthetic products throughout the plant. Ground tissue is made up of parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma cells, and is responsible for functions such as photosynthesis, storage, and support.