What is the main characteristic of a deciduous tree?

The main characteristic of a deciduous tree is that it sheds its leaves seasonally. Deciduous trees typically lose their leaves in the fall as a response to changing weather conditions, particularly in temperate climates. This seasonal leaf drop is a survival strategy that helps the tree conserve water and energy during periods when it is less able to photosynthesize effectively due to lower light levels and colder temperatures.

Unlike evergreen trees, which retain their foliage throughout the year, deciduous trees undergo this shedding process as part of their life cycle. This adaptation allows them to thrive in various environments and ensures they can enter a period of dormancy during harsh conditions.

In contrast, trees that remain green all year round are classified as evergreen. Trees that produce cones instead of flowers are usually coniferous trees, such as pines, and while some deciduous trees may have long lifespans, this characteristic is not universal or defining for deciduous trees specifically.