xylem
Cross references: 1. phloem xy.lem \'zi--l*m, -.lem\ n [G, fr. Gk xylon] : a complex tissue in the vascular system of higher plants consisting of v essels, tracheids, or both usu. together with wood fibers and parenchyma cells, functioning chiefly in conduction but also in support and storage, and typically constituting the woody element (as of a plant stem)