Annuals, Biennials And Perennials

Plants can be grouped based on how long they live.


Definition: Plants that complete their life cycle (from seed → plant → flower → seed) in one year or less.

Examples: Sunflower, Marigold, Wheat, Rice.

  • Grow from seed and die in the same year.
  • Usually have bright, colorful flowers.
  • Need to be planted again every year.

Definition: Plants that take two years to complete their life cycle.

Examples: Carrot, Beetroot, Cabbage.

  • First year: Grow leaves, roots, and stems.
  • Second year: Flower, produce seeds, and then die.

Definition: Plants that live for many years.

Examples: Mango tree, Rose, Tulip.

  • Do not need to be replanted every year.
  • Keep growing and producing flowers/fruits for many seasons.
  • Some lose leaves in winter, others stay green all year.

TypeLife SpanExample
Annuals1 yearSunflower
Biennials2 yearsCarrot
PerennialsMany yearsMango tree

  • Annual = 1 year
  • Biennial = 2 years
  • Perennial = Many years

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