What are the key characteristics of perennials?

Perennials are characterized by their ability to live for more than two years and often reproduce on an annual basis. This distinguishes them from annuals, which complete their life cycle in a single year, and biennials, which require two years to complete their life cycle. Perennials can survive through various seasons, with the above-ground parts often dying back in the winter, while the root systems remain alive, allowing for regrowth in the spring. Their capacity to reproduce annually can be through seeds, vegetative means, or both, enhancing their presence in the ecosystem over time. Understanding these characteristics is vital for managing perennial plants in agriculture and gardening practices.