What is the region in plants where active cell division occurs, allowing for growth?

The apical meristem is the region in plants where active cell division occurs, facilitating growth. Located at the tips of roots and shoots, apical meristems are critical for primary growth, which is the elongation of plants. This area contains undifferentiated cells that continuously divide, leading to the formation of new cells that will later specialize to become various tissues and organs of the plant, such as leaves, stems, and flowers.

In the context of plant development, the apical meristem enables the plant to increase in length and reach toward sunlight, which is essential for photosynthesis and overall health. This characteristic of the apical meristem is fundamental to how plants grow in response to environmental conditions, allowing them to adapt and thrive.