protoderm
/ˈproʊtəˌdɜrm/
noun
- The outermost layer of cells in a plant embryo or young plant, which develops into the epidermis.
- Botany students learned that the protoderm eventually becomes the plant's skin.
- In the developing seedling, the protoderm is the first tissue layer to form.
- The protoderm gives rise to the protective outer covering of the plant.