Ginger. Light micrograph of part of a thinly sliced section across a root from the ginger plant (Zingiber officinale). The outer epidermal layer (brown) surrounds the cortex layer. This surrounds the central stele of the root (partially seen at top left). An endodermis layer is seen separating the cortex and stele. The stele contains vascular tissues, the xylem and phloem tissues (not seen) that carry water and minerals, and nutrients respectively. This root is used as a spice to flavour food. Combined brightfield and darkfield illumination. Magnification: x13 at 6x7cm size.