ClimateAugust 18, 2026

perennial

puh-REN-ee-ul

Definition

A plant that lives for more than two years, typically returning to grow and bloom season after season.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'perennis,' meaning 'lasting the whole year' or 'everlasting,' formed from 'per-' (through) and 'annus' (year).

In the news

The article uses the word to describe types of flowering plants for the ground layer in native garden designs, emphasizing their role as long-term components of a sustainable habitat.

Column | See which native plants will thrive in your garden

Read the full article ↗

The Washington Post

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