In cross-sections of stems does the collenchyma commonly appear in discrete strands or as a peripheral cylinder that lies, depending on the species, either directly beneath the epidermis or is separated from it by several layers of parenchyma. The cylinder is usually composed of several layers. Collenchyma is also found bordering the veins of dicot leaves. It forms fibres in edgy stems that run along the edges or ribs. Often is either phloem or xylem of the vascular bundles associated with collenchyma cells.
Many transitions prove the collenchyma's origin from the parenchyma .
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.