What function does phloem serve in a plant?

Phloem serves a crucial function in a plant's vascular system by transporting sugars and other metabolic products produced during photosynthesis, primarily from the leaves, throughout the plant. This transport occurs in all directions, but it is particularly vital for directing these sugars downwards to growing parts and storage organs like roots and fruits. The sugars transported by phloem are essential for energy and development, serving both immediate metabolic needs and future growth.

In contrast, water transport is the primary role of xylem, which moves water and dissolved minerals from the roots upwards to the rest of the plant. Other functions, like mineral transport to roots and nutrient storage, are also accomplished primarily through other means in the plant's system. Thus, the function of phloem in distributing the sugars created in the leaves is fundamental to the plant's overall vitality and growth.