# herbaceous

/ɝˈbeɪʃəs/ (US) · /hɜːbˈeɪʃəs/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/herbaceous
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

describing plants that have soft, green stems that die back in the winter. These plants usually grow from the ground up each year.

For teachers: relating to or consisting of plants with non-woody stems that die back to the ground at the end of the growing season. Often used in botanical or horticultural contexts to distinguish from woody shrubs or trees.

## Examples

- The garden is full of colorful herbaceous plants.
- Gardeners often divide herbaceous perennials in the autumn to encourage healthier growth the following spring.
- The landscape was dominated by a diverse array of herbaceous species, their vibrant foliage providing a striking contrast to the sparse, evergreen shrubs that lined the perimeter of the field.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.