Seeds

General Science

Structure of a seed

What is a seed?

A seed is a small embryonic plant enclosed in a covering called a seed coat which usually stores food.

The seed is also capable of developing into another plant.

Parts of a seed

• Food Store

• First Leaf

• Seed Coat

• Embryo

Seed Coat or Testa

This structure protects and surrounds the embryo until conditions are suitable for growing.

The coat (size, thickness and shape) varies depending on the seed type.

Hilum

The scar on the seed marking the point of attachment to the ovule.

Embryo

This is the portion which forms a new plant providing there is favorable growing conditions

• Plumule-the tip of the shoot which grows into the first leaves

• Radicle- the part of the seed where the root develops.