> What's the term to describe plants that grow, reproduce, and die all in oneseason?And the answer: annuals. Unlike perennials which persist for many growing seasons, annuals are plantsthat only last for one, typically from spring to autumn. Many colorful flowersare annuals, such as geraniums, petunias, and marigolds.Photo credit: Tetra Images.What is it that makes an annual plant special,exactly? Well, for one, these plants may be short-lived in the growing season,but their blooms are not. In fact, annuals tend to produce a bloom for about anentire season. And while these blooms may be beautiful, it's not just that:annuals actually produce seeds to store throughout the winter during the periodof bloom. After they bloom, annual plants die off, letting their seeds grow andgerminate to produce the next batch of flowers the following year. The vast majority of other plants, however, fall under the category ofperennials. Flowers such as daisies, hollyhock, and fall phlox, and herbs likelavender and sage, are all examples of perennials. Unlike annuals, perennialsdon't die after producing seed. Instead, they continue their cycle of seedproduction into the year. So, to sum it all up: a massive display of flowers for a distinct period of time(they usually require replanting in the new season) indicates annual plants,while perennials will bring flowers back year after year. Learn more about the selection and cultivation of these two plant types below.