What is a key characteristic of sapwood compared to heartwood?

Sapwood is a key part of a tree's structure that is essential for its growth and nutrient transport. One of its main characteristics is that it contains living cells and active vascular tissue. This living aspect of sapwood plays a crucial role in the transport of water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves of the tree. It is responsible for conducting sap, which is rich in nutrients and essential for the tree's overall health and growth.

In contrast, heartwood, which is the innermost part of the tree, is composed of older, dead cells that no longer participate in transport. Heartwood provides structural support but does not have the active transport functionality that sapwood does. Therefore, the distinction between the two lies significantly in the presence of living cells and active vascular functions within sapwood.