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Lifespan of Deciduous Plants vs Evergreen Plants

Deciduous plants are a diverse group of plants that shed their leaves annually. These plants go through a cycle of growth, leaf production, and leaf drop in response to changes in the seasons. The lifespan of deciduous plants can vary depending on the species, environmental conditions, and care provided.

Deciduous plants typically have a shorter lifespan compared to evergreen plants. Most deciduous trees live for several decades, with some species living up to a century or more. However, there are also deciduous shrubs and perennials that have a shorter lifespan, ranging from a few years to a couple of decades.

One of the defining characteristics of deciduous plants is their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. As the seasons change, deciduous plants shed their leaves to conserve energy and protect themselves from harsh weather conditions. This shedding of leaves allows deciduous plants to enter a dormant phase during winter, conserving resources until favorable conditions return in spring.

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Evergreen Plants:

Evergreen plants, on the other hand, retain their leaves throughout the year. These plants have adapted to withstand various environmental conditions, including cold winters and hot summers. Evergreen plants have a longer lifespan compared to deciduous plants, with some species living for centuries.

The ability of evergreen plants to retain their leaves year-round provides them with a continuous supply of energy through photosynthesis. This allows them to grow and thrive even during unfavorable seasons. Evergreen trees, such as pine and spruce, are known for their longevity, often living for hundreds of years.

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Unlike deciduous plants, evergreen plants do not undergo a dormant phase. Instead, they continuously photosynthesize and grow throughout the year, taking advantage of available sunlight and favorable conditions.

In conclusion, the lifespan of deciduous plants is generally shorter compared to evergreen plants. Deciduous plants shed their leaves annually and enter a dormant phase during winter, while evergreen plants retain their leaves year-round and continue to grow and photosynthesize throughout the year.

Keywords: plants, deciduous, leaves, lifespan, conditions, seasons, species, environmental, shorter