What is a plant that completes its life cycle in a single year called?

A plant that completes its life cycle in a single year is known as an annual. This means that it germinates from seed, grows, flowers, produces seeds, and then dies all within one growing season. Annuals play a crucial role in various ecosystems and are often used in gardening and landscaping for their ability to provide vibrant colors and blooms throughout the growing season.

In contrast, perennials are plants that live for more than two years, often returning year after year. Biennials take two years to complete their life cycle; they typically grow vegetatively in the first year and flower in the second year. Evergreens refer to plants that retain their leaves throughout the year, regardless of the season, and do not specifically relate to the lifecycle duration. Understanding these classifications helps in effective landscaping and gardening practices.