The endodermis is a single layer of cells between the cortex and the pericycle. Syncytium is formed in pericycle and endodermal cells of the plant. Monocot roots rarely branch, but can, and this branch will originate from the pericycle. The pericycle is located between the endodermis and phloem in plant roots. In roots, the cork cambium originates in the pericycle, a component of the vascular cylinder. In dicot roots, the pericycle strengthens the roots and provides protection for the vascular bundles.