What is a group of cells in plants that can divide by mitosis and form new cells and tissues called?

A group of cells in plants that can divide by mitosis and form new cells and tissues is referred to as meristem. Meristems are regions in plants where rapid cell division occurs, leading to growth. These tissues are typically found at the tips of roots and shoots (apical meristems) and in the vascular cambium (lateral meristems), contributing to the plant's overall growth in both length and girth.

Meristematic cells are characterized by their ability to remain undifferentiated for a longer period, allowing them to proliferate and differentiate into various cell types that make up different plant tissues like xylem and phloem. This function is critical for the plant's development, enabling it to grow and adapt to its environment.

Endoderm refers to a specific layer of cells in roots that regulate water and nutrient uptake, while xylem and phloem are types of vascular tissues responsible for the transport of water, nutrients, and food, respectively. None of these options have the capability to create new tissues through mitosis as meristems do.