Which of the following describes the term 'perennials' in landscaping?

The term 'perennials' in landscaping refers to plants that live for more than two years. These plants typically go through seasonal cycles, with the foliage dying back in the winter and re-emerging in the spring. This characteristic distinguishes them from annuals, which complete their life cycle in a single growing season, and biennials, which take two years to complete their lifecycle. Perennials are valued in landscaping for their longevity and the ability to return year after year, providing consistent beauty in gardens without the need for replanting annually.

In contrast, flowering annually only applies to annual plants, which complete their life cycle in one year. Similarly, plants that do not require watering, often referred to as xerophytes or drought-resistant, can include both perennials and annuals based on their specific needs and environment. Finally, while many perennials can indeed be native to local environments, the term itself does not specify native status. Thus, the definition of perennials focuses specifically on their lifespan rather than other characteristics.