The function of the conducting
tissues (xylem and phloem) is
continuous through the culm’s
lifespan, and no new conducting
tissue is formed in contrast to
that in the hardwoods and softwoods
of the dicotyledons.
During ageing, these conducting
vessels can become partially
obstructed by gums (slime and
tylosoids) limiting conductivity
and inducing the death of the
culm (Liese, 1998).