Basal Cells of the Epidermis

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These are the cells that make up the bulk of the epidermis. They are tightly interlocked so that there are no intercellular spaces continuous with the environment. In the shoot, these excrete a cuticle that limits water loss. In the root, these form root hairs that increase the surface area for water absorbsion.

• Link to image of a face view of Zebrina leaf epidermis with guard cells lining a stoma, and with basal epidermal cells.
• Link to image of a cross section of the epidermis of a Medicago Stem, with a view of a stoma with guard cells and with basal cells of the epidermis.
• Link to view of basal epidermal cells in a paradermal section of Syringa (lilac) These are on the left side of the section.