"The Corn embryo axis undergoes a considerable degree of differentation early in its formation. The epicotyl takes the form of a well-developed multilayered plumule -- the hypocotyl giving rise to a large, robust embryonic root (radicle)
The plumules are protected by a sheath of cells called the coleoptile, while the radicle is covered by a similar structure called the coleorhiza.
The monocot cotyledon -- scutellum is used for food storage and digestion. It does not absorb nutrients from the endosperm.
