Final answer:
The perichondrium is the outer connective tissue layer around cartilage, providing it with nutrients through its blood vessels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The outer connective tissue layer that occurs around cartilage is called the perichondrium. This layer of dense irregular connective tissue encapsulates the cartilage, providing it with nutrients since cartilaginous tissue is avascular. Cartilage itself consists of chondrocytes found within spaces called lacunae that make up the matrix and fibers of the tissue. The perichondrium is essential for the growth and repair of cartilage, as it contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the cartilage cells.