State the functions of radicle and plumule.

The radicle is the embryonic root and its function is to anchor the plant and absorb water and nutrients; the plumule is the embryonic shoot and its function is to develop into the stem and leaves and perform photosynthesis.

• Radicle:
  • First part of the seedling to emerge during germination.
  • It grows downward into the soil, becomes the primary root.
  • Anchors the plant and absorbs water and mineral nutrients.
• Plumule:
  • The embryonic shoot portion in the seed.
  • Grows upward, forms stem, leaves, branches.
  • Once exposed to light, initiates photosynthesis and enables the plant to produce food.