Plant tissues fall into two categories: meristematic and permanent tissues. Meristematic tissues, like apical and lateral meristems, allow for growth through cell division. Apical meristems cause primary growth in shoots and roots as cells divide and elongate. Permanent tissues, such as parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma, take on mature forms to carry out functions like photosynthesis, storage, and structural support. Parenchyma is one of the most common permanent tissues found throughout plant organs.