Collenchyma is a type of plant tissue that provides support and flexibility to young stems and leaves. It consists of living cells with unevenly thickened cell walls, allowing the tissue to stretch and bend without breaking. This characteristic makes collenchyma particularly important in areas of growth, where flexibility is essential for the plant's development. Collenchyma is often found just beneath the epidermis, the outer layer of cells in plants. It plays a crucial role in supporting the plant while still allowing for movement and growth. This tissue is commonly seen in herbaceous plants, where it helps maintain structure during various environmental conditions.