Bean Seed Parts

Bean seeds are known as dicotyledons because they can be split into two halves, unlike monocotyledons like corn or wheat. Due to the bean seed's relatively large size and quick germination process, it's ideal for those who want to study the different parts of a seed. School teachers often use bean seeds to teach the seed growth process to grade school students, but people of all ages can inspect a bean seed and see what parts play a role in the future plant's growth.

Seed Coat

The seed coat is the visible exterior of the bean seed. The hard surface protects the inside of the bean seed.


The hilum, a pale or white dot, can be located on the inside curved section of the bean seed. It's the scar left behind on the bean when it was disconnected from the string-like growth that held it to the inside of the bean pod.


The micropyle is adjacent to the hilum. This small hole lets water into the bean seed to stimulate the germination process.


The cotyledons can be seen by splitting the bean seed in half. Each of the halves are known as cotyledons and serve as a food source for the germinating bean until the seedling grows energy-producing leaves.


The plumule lies against one of the cotyledon halves. This curled-up, worm-like growth is what develops into a full bean plant. During the germination process, the plumule rises up between the two cotyledons. It's tip is known as the epicotyl and looks like a miniature leaf. It's connected to a hypocotyl, which turns into a stem as the bean develops.


The radicle lies just below the plumule and develops into the bean plant's root system.

Keywords: bean seed parts, bean seed components, parts of a bean seed

About this Author
