What is a common characteristic of herbaceous plants?

Herbaceous plants are characterized by having soft, non-woody stems. This feature distinguishes them from woody plants, such as trees and shrubs, which have thicker, harder stems that provide structural support and longevity. The non-woody stems of herbaceous plants mean that they tend to die back to the ground at the end of the growing season in temperate climates, only to regrow in spring. This life cycle is fundamental to their classification as herbaceous.

While other options might relate to various plant types or environmental needs, they do not correctly define the unique characteristic of herbaceous plants. For example, the presence of thick bark pertains to woody plants, and their longevity varies significantly across plant species, with some herbaceous plants being annuals that live for only one growing season. Water requirements can depend on the type of plant and its environment, so this aspect is not universally applicable to all herbaceous plants.