Where is meristem tissue primarily found in plants?

Meristem tissue is a type of plant tissue that consists of undifferentiated cells capable of continuous division and growth. It is primarily located at the growing tips of roots and shoots, which are known as apical meristems. This location enables plants to increase in height and develop new leaves, flowers, and branches.

The activity of meristematic cells is crucial for primary growth, allowing the plant to extend its roots deeper into the soil and its shoots towards the light. This growth is essential for the plant's ability to gather resources and adapt to its environment.

While other locations listed might contain different types of tissues or be involved in other functions, they do not serve as the primary sites for the production of new growth in plants. The roots and leaves contain mature tissues, the middle of the stems is mainly composed of established vascular and ground tissues, and the base of flowers typically contains differentiated tissues related to reproduction rather than growth.