In angiosperms the primordia of the lateral roots are formed by the periclinal and anticlinal divisions of a group of pericycle cells. The initiating divisions are periclinal. As a result of further growth the primordium penetrates through the cortex of the parent root. It is possible to distinguish the zones of primary tissues, apical meristem and root cap of the lateral root primordium even before it appears on the surface el the parent root.