What are perennials?

Perennials are defined as plants that live for more than two years. This characteristic sets them apart from annuals, which complete their life cycle within a single growing season, and biennials, which live for two years. Perennials can go through a cycle of growth, flowering, and dormancy, returning year after year, which is a key aspect of their longevity. This attribute allows gardeners to create lasting plantings that require less frequent replanting.

The other choices describe different types of plants or growing conditions that do not apply to the definition of perennials. Specifically, arid conditions pertain to drought-resistant plants, while annuals and biennials have distinct life cycles; annuals die off every year, and biennials have a two-season cycle. Additionally, while some perennials can be found in tropical climates, they are not exclusively limited to these areas, as perennials can thrive in a variety of environments across different climatic zones.