Which of the following is an example of an herbaceous plant?

An herbaceous plant is characterized by its soft, non-woody stems, as opposed to woody plants that have stronger, thicker stems. Petunias exemplify this characteristic, as they are flowering plants that typically die back to the ground at the end of the growing season, with their stems being green and tender. This structure allows them to thrive in various environments, particularly in gardens and landscapes.

In contrast, cacti, maple trees, and pine trees are all classified as woody plants. Cacti have thick, fleshy stems that are adapted to store water, while maple and pine trees have rigid, woody structures that provide support and longevity. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the classification of different types of plants based on their structural characteristics.