The differentiation is reversible, a degeneration to meristematic states has often been observed. The walls of collenchyma cells are strengthened by the deposit of cellulose and the coating with pectin . These strengthenings are often restricted to single parts or edges of the cell. The walls of parenchyma cells are opened by pits that are often arranged in special areas. A thickening of the cell's edges can be seen in cross-section.
Longitudinal sections show the elongated shape of both cell and thickening.
A cross-section through the stem of Begonia rex or related species is the typical specimen used in botanical microscopic courses. The tangential walls of this collenchyma type are thicker than the radial walls. Sambucus nigra , species of the genera Sanguisorba, Rhoeo, Eupatoria. While hardly any intercellular spaces exist in the two types above, are those of this type very large. Clear gaps can be recognized between the cells.