The Cell Wall Structure of Xylem Parenchyma

Abstract

The fine structure of the cell wall of both ray and vertical parenchyma has been investigated. In all species examined secondary thickening had occurred. In the primary cell wall the micellar orientation was approximately trans"erse to the longitudiJ)aI cell axis. Using optical and X-ray methods the secondary cell wall was shown to possess a helical micellar organization, the micelles being inclined between 30° and 60° to the longitudinal cell axis.