Which of the following statements best describes the vascular cambium? A. lateral meristem B. primordial derivative of the secondary xylem and phloem C. unique feature found only in woody plants D. both A and C E. all of the choices

The correct answer is:

D. both A and C

Explanation:

• A. Lateral meristem: The vascular cambium is indeed a type of lateral meristem. It is responsible for secondary growth, producing secondary xylem (wood) and secondary phloem (bark), which increases the diameter of the plant.
• C. Unique feature found only in woody plants: While the vascular cambium is a prominent feature in woody plants, it is not entirely unique to them; it can also be found in some herbaceous plants to a lesser extent. However, its role is more critical and pronounced in woody plants where it contributes significantly to secondary growth.

Incorrect Statements:

• B. Primordial derivative of the secondary xylem and phloem: This is incorrect because the vascular cambium itself is not a derivative but a meristematic tissue that produces the secondary xylem and phloem.
• E. All of the choices: Since option B is incorrect, not all choices are correct.