Thin layer of living, meristematic (multiplying) cells between the bark (phloem) and wood (xylem). By constantly dividing, they form new phloem on the outside and new xylem on the inside and bring about the secondary growth of lignifying plants.

Primary component of plant cell walls and therefore the most common organic compound on earth. Cellulose is a molecular component of wood. Depending on the type of wood, the share cellulose has of a tree is 40 to 50% (next to lignin and hemicellulose with 20 to 30%).

Summergreen, evergreen or deciduous trees and shrubs (approximately 200 species in temperate latitudes).

The earlywood of the cherry tree has fine vessels which sit closely together and are arranged in a semicircular pattern. The earlywood pores form a conspicuous, somewhat darker grain, while the darker latewood has a longitudinal striation. Occasionally, the pore grooves are filled with heartwood matter and then stand out as dark lines. The numerous fine wood rays that lie close together appear as brightly shining mirrors. The cherry sapwood is narrow and pinkish. The heartwood is only a little darker, to pale reddish-brown with a yellow tint, occasionally with a greenish tone and green stripes and becomes darker over time.