The outermost layer of cells covering leaves, stems, and roots that provides protection and regulates gas exchange. In leaves, the epidermis contains stomata and is often covered with a waxy cuticle.
From Greek 'epi' (upon) and 'derma' (skin), literally meaning 'upon the skin.' The term was borrowed from anatomy in the 18th century as botanists recognized similar protective outer layers in plants.
Plant epidermis is like a smart skin that can see, breathe, and waterproof itself all at once! Some leaf epidermis cells act as tiny lenses that focus light onto the photosynthetic cells below, making plants more efficient solar collectors.
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