SclerenchymaWhat is sclerenchyma? Sclerenchyma is a supporting tissue in plants. There are 2 groups of sclerenchyma: - Fibres and sclereids Their walls consist of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Sclerenchyma cells are the principal, supporting cells in plant tissues that have ceased elongation. They often occur as bundle cap fibers. Sclerenchyma cells are characterized by thickenings in their secondary walls.Mature sclerenchyma is composed of dead cells with extremely thick cell walls (secondary walls) that make up to 90% of the whole cell volume. It is the hard, thick walls that make sclerenchyma cells important strengthening and supporting elements in plant parts that have ceased elongation. The walls of these cells are very thick and built up in a uniform layer around the entire margin of the cell. Often, the cell dies after its cell wall is fully formed. Sclerenchyma cells are usually found associated with other cells types and give them mechanical support. Sclerenchyma is found in stems and also in leaf veins. Sclerenchyma also makes up the hard outer covering of seeds and nuts.