endodermis The innermost layer of the root cortex of a plant, lying immediately outside the vascular tissue. Various modifications of the endodermal cell walls enable them to regulate the passage of materials both into and out of the vascular system (see Casparian strip). An endodermis may also be seen in the stems of some plants.

endodermis The innermost layer of the cortex surrounding the stele in plants, which plays an important role in controlling the transport of substances within the plant