Epidermis

• 
  
  The covering of the root (its skin) is covered with fine hairs that absorb the moisture and nutrients in the soil.
  
  

Stele and Xylem

• Epidermis, stele, xylem and cortex
  
  The center of the root is where food is processed and transported through the xylem (veins) upward through the roots and stems to the leaves and flowers of the growing plant.
  
  

Cortex

• The fleshy part of the root under the epidermis is made of cells that cushion and insulate the stele and xylem.
  
  

Vascular Rays

• Rays with stele, cortex and epidermis
  
  Porous pathways bring food and water from the surface of the epidermis through the cortex into the stele so it can be transported upward.
  
  

Root Cap

• Root cap, tip and hairs
  
  A root cap covers the end of each root; it senses gravity, seeks water and eases the growing root's way by excreting a lubricating substance called mucilage.
  
  

Root Tip

• Caps and tips leave "nodules" as they grow that may start new plants
  
  The root tip is the dynamic, growing end of the root; some of the nutrients absorbed by the roots are retained and sent to this part of the root.