Which one among the following is not a part of vascular bundle in plants?

In plants, the vascular bundle is a part of the transport system consisting primarily of xylem and phloem [3]. Xylem is responsible for moving water and minerals from the soil, while phloem transports the products of photosynthesis [1]. In many plants, particularly dicots, the vascular bundle also contains the vascular cambium, a layer of meristematic tissue located between the xylem and phloem that facilitates secondary growth. While the endodermis is closely associated with the vascular system, it is defined as a specialized layer of cells that surrounds the vascular bundle rather than being a component of the bundle itself. The endodermis acts as a selective barrier in the root, regulating the movement of water and nutrients into the xylem. Therefore, the endodermis is not considered a part of the vascular bundle.

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > 5.4.2 Transportation in Plants > p. 94
2. [3] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Life Processes > Transport of food and other substances > p. 95