Final answer:
The cork cambium in woody plants produces cork cells for bark which repel water and protect the plant, as well as phelloderm. It forms the periderm, including lenticels for gas exchange, and is essential for the plant's secondary growth and protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of the cork cambium in woody plants is crucial for the protection and growth of the plant. The cork cambium is responsible for producing cork cells that form part of the bark, which repels water thanks to a substance called suberin. This bark is essential as it shields the plant from physical damage and helps in reducing water loss. In addition to cork cells, the cork cambium also generates phelloderm, a layer of cells that grow inward.
Collectively, these layers are known as the periderm and take over the function of the epidermis in mature plants. Furthermore, the periderm features lenticels, which allow gas exchange with the outside environment, providing oxygen to active cells in the plant. It's important to note that cork cambium differs from vascular cambium; the latter produces secondary xylem and phloem, increasing the plant's diameter.
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