Vocabulary stuff

When shopping for plants it is good to have some basic understanding of the vocabulary used in regards to plants. Here are some of the most common terms that many people find confusing.

1. annual - living and growing for only one year or season
2. perennial - having a life span of more than 2 years
3. biennial - the life cycle of this plant is complete in 2 seasons
4. deciduous- shedding or losing foliage at the end of the growing season
5. herbaceous -  green and leaf like in appearance and texture as distinguished from a woody plant
6. evergreen - the plant does not go dormant, remaining attractive throughout the year

The terms annual and perennial, are used "openly" when you are looking for the small plant for your garden or front yard. You go out and look at the annuals and perennials your local garden center has on display. But these terms also apply to trees, shrubs, grasses and herbs so it is good to have an idea of what each means on your next shopping adventure!