The funiculus is the tissue that attaches the developing seed with the mother plant (fruit). It is the conduit for food and water to the developing seed.

After the seed reaches physiological maturity and is about to enter the desiccation drying phase of development, the funiculus attachment to the seed is severed.

Micrograph of the cross section of a developing seed, with the funiculus, radicle, seed coat, apical meristem, and cotyledons identified.

The scar left on the seed coat by the funiculus is called the hilum.

Photo of a seed with the hilum identified.

Photo of a second seed with the hilum identifed. It's appearance is slightly different than in the first seed.