Which term refers to plants that require two growing seasons to complete their life cycle?

Which term refers to plants that require two growing seasons to complete their life cycle?

• A. Annuals
• B. Perennials
• C. Biennials
• D. Acer platanoides

Answer: (C)

Biennials are plants that require two growing seasons to complete their life cycle. In the first year they grow vegetatively and store energy, and in the second year they flower, produce seeds, and often die after seed set. This two-year pattern distinguishes them from annuals, which finish everything in one season, and from perennials, which live for many years and can flower repeatedly. A plant like Acer platanoides is a specific maple species and represents a perennial habit, not a two-season life cycle term.

Biennials are plants that require two growing seasons to complete their life cycle. In the first year they grow vegetatively and store energy, and in the second year they flower, produce seeds, and often die after seed set. This two-year pattern distinguishes them from annuals, which finish everything in one season, and from perennials, which live for many years and can flower repeatedly. A plant like Acer platanoides is a specific maple species and represents a perennial habit, not a two-season life cycle term.