Plant Cell Diagram

Free printable labeled plant cell diagram showing the cell wall, chloroplasts, central vacuole, nucleus, mitochondria and more. Download as a high-resolution PDF or PNG for Letter paper.

Plant Cell Diagram
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Parts of a plant cell

Each labeled part of the diagram is an organelle — a small structure with a specific job. Here is what each one does:

OrganelleFunction
Cell wallA rigid outer layer that gives the plant cell its shape and support.
Cell membraneA thin outer boundary that controls what enters and leaves the cell.
CytoplasmThe jelly-like fluid that fills the cell and holds the organelles.
NucleusThe control center that stores the cell's DNA and directs its activities.
NucleolusA small body inside the nucleus that makes ribosomes.
ChloroplastCaptures sunlight to make food through photosynthesis; contains green chlorophyll.
MitochondriaReleases energy from food — often called the powerhouse of the cell.
VacuoleStores water, food and waste. Plant cells have one large central vacuole.
Endoplasmic reticulumA network of tubes that makes and moves proteins and lipids around the cell.
Golgi apparatusPackages and ships proteins to where they are needed.
RibosomesTiny structures that build proteins.

How to print

Choose Download PDF for a ready-to-print file that fits US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape, or Download PNG for the high-resolution image.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main parts of a plant cell?

A plant cell has a cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, a nucleus (with a nucleolus), chloroplasts, mitochondria, a large central vacuole, endoplasmic reticulum, a Golgi apparatus and ribosomes.

What is the difference between plant and animal cells?

Both have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, mitochondria and ribosomes. Plant cells also have a rigid cell wall, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and one large central vacuole. Animal cells are usually rounder and have lysosomes and centrioles instead.

What paper size should I print this on?

The diagram is sized for standard US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape orientation. Use "Download PDF" for a print-ready file that fits the page automatically.