Whereas the adult body plan of an animal is established largely during embryogenesis, the body plan of a plant is elaborated throughout its life, through the activity of meristematic tissues. Although many of the patterning mechanisms that operate during embryogenesis in animal systems are becoming understood in molecular terms, the extent to which analogous mechanisms underpin the formation and function of meristematic tissues in plants remains unclear. This volume takes a fresh look at the essential nature of meristematic tissues and the manner in which they contribute to the growth and development of the plant. Authors pay special attention to the molecular mechanisms underlying meristem formation and maintenance, while at the same time integrating them with existing physiological and anatomical information. The volume is directed at researchers and professionals in plant genetics, developmental biology, molecular biology and physiology.