Encodes caffeoyl shikimate esterase and is involved in lignin biosynthesis. CSE converts caffeoyl shikimate to caffiate. Loss of function mutations have reduced lignin content and collapsed vessel elements. It is also reported to function as a lysophospholipase 2 (LysoPL2) involved in tolerance to cadmium-induced oxidative stress. Binds Acyl-CoA-binding protein 2 (ACBP2).