Abstract Silicon is widely recognized as a beneficial element for plant growth. Numerous studies have shown the beneficial effects of silicon, particularly under stress conditions. For the efficient exploration of silicon derived benefits, understanding silicon uptake mechanism, subsequent transport and accumulation in different tissues is essential. Here, a thorough review of reports describing how plants benefit from silicon supplementation was performed to provide comprehensive and clear insights. The molecular mechanism involved in silicon transport has been discussed and highlighted the knowledge gap, particularly the xylem unloading and transport in heavily silicified cells. Silicification of plant tissues like sclerenchyma, fibers, storage tissues, epidermal, and vascular tissues have been described. Silicon deposition in different cell-types, tissues, and intercellular spaces impacting morphological and physiological status found to be associated with enhanced plant resilience under various stresses. The beneficial impact of silicon deposition under various biotic and abiotic stresses has been addressed in detail. Among the mechanisms discussed here to explain silicon derived benefits, most profoundly observed includes interference in physiological processes, modulation of stress responses, and biochemical interactions. Understanding different mechanisms specific to silicon deposition in tissues, developmental stages, and environmental factors will be helpful to elucidate the versatile role of silicon in plants.

Silicon (Si), a beneficial element for plants, is known for its prophylactic effect under stress conditions. Many studies have documented the role of biogenic silica (bulk-Si) in alleviating biotic and...

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