In a developing plant embryo, the embryonal axis is divided into two main regions relative to the cotyledons. The hypocotyl is the segment of the axis situated below the cotyledonary node, which eventually develops into the root system. Conversely, the epicotyl is the portion located above the cotyledons, which gives rise to the shoot system, including the plumule and the first true leaves.

The radicle is the embryonic root located at the tip of the hypocotyl. It is the first part of the seedling to emerge during germination and is responsible for anchoring the plant and absorbing water and minerals.

Bean seeds are classified as exalbuminous or non-endospermic seeds. In these seeds, the endosperm is completely consumed by the developing embryo during seed maturation. Consequently, the food reserves are stored within the cotyledons rather than in a separate endosperm tissue. This is a characteristic feature of many dicotyledonous plants, distinguishing them from albuminous seeds where the endosperm persists.

The epicotyl is the portion of the embryonic stem located above the attachment point of the cotyledons. It eventually develops into the shoot system of the plant, including the leaves and the stem above the cotyledonary node.

In dicot embryogenesis, the zygote undergoes a series of divisions. A key stage in this process is the formation of an eight-celled structure known as the octant stage, which is a fundamental developmental milestone in the formation of the dicot embryo.

The coleorhiza is a protective sheath that covers the radicle in monocotyledonous embryos. During germination, the radicle emerges by breaking through the coleorhiza. This structure provides essential protection to the embryonic root tip as it pushes through the soil layers during the initial stages of plant development.

During early embryogenesis in many plants, the zygote undergoes a series of divisions. The formation of an eight-celled stage is a critical developmental milestone known as the octant stage. These cells are organized in a specific pattern that eventually differentiates into the various tissues of the developing embryo, such as the cotyledons, hypocotyl, and radicle.

Pea seeds are classified as exalbuminous or non-endospermic because the endosperm is consumed during the development of the embryo, and the food reserves are instead stored within the cotyledons of the seed.

Following fertilization, the zygote undergoes a period of dormancy. During this phase, it secretes a thick, protective wall around itself to withstand unfavorable environmental conditions, transforming into a structure known as an oospore. This is a common feature in many algae and fungi, allowing the organism to survive until conditions become suitable for germination and further development.