There is provided an isolated polynucleotide sequence useful as a promoter in plant root tissue. The sequence is derived from the promoter for the Western white pine gene PR10. The sequence comprises at least 45 nucleotidcs, and has at least two Dof elements which individually may be in a forward or inverted orientation. Each Dof element has a sequence NNNWAAAGNNN, wherein N is A, T, G, or, C, and, W is A or T. The Dof elements are separated from each other by between 10 and 20 nucleotides. The sequence also has a TATA box located between 15 and 25 nucleotides in the 3' direction of the closest Dof element. In some instances, the polynucleotide has one Dof element with the sequence NNNWAAAGNNN and another with the sequence NNNCTTTWNNN. In some instances the polynucleotide sequence is one where the 5' Dof element sequence is CTCTCTTTAAT, and another Dof element (which may be the next Dof element) sequence is TTTAAAGGTT and the TATA box sequence is TACAATAAATA or TATAWAWA, wherein W is A or T. Also provided are sequences useful in modulating gene expression in stem and leaf tissue.