Herbs definition in botany
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Botanical Definition of Herbs: Non-Woody Plants
In botany, an herb is defined as a seed-producing plant with non-woody stems that die back to the ground at the end of the growing season 34510. This means that herbs do not develop the hard, woody tissue found in shrubs or trees, and their above-ground parts typically wither away after flowering or at the end of their life cycle 34510.
Plant Parts and Broader Uses in Herbalism
While the strict botanical definition focuses on non-woody plants, the term "herb" is often used more broadly in herbalism and everyday language. In these contexts, "herb" can refer to any plant or plant part—such as leaves, stems, roots, bark, flowers, seeds, or fruits—that is valued for its medicinal, aromatic, or culinary properties 1245679. This broader definition includes not only non-woody plants but also parts of woody plants like trees and shrubs when used for their beneficial qualities 145.
Key Characteristics of Herbs in Botany
- Non-woody stems: Herbs lack the woody tissue found in trees and shrubs 34510.
- Seasonal growth: The above-ground parts of herbs die back to the ground after the growing season, though some may regrow from perennial roots 310.
- Seed production: Herbs are typically seed-producing plants 34.
- Variety of uses: Herbs are used for flavoring food, medicinal purposes, fragrances, and sometimes for ornamental value 124567910.
Conclusion
In summary, the botanical definition of an herb is a non-woody, seed-producing plant whose above-ground parts die back at the end of the growing season. However, in herbalism and common usage, the term "herb" can refer to any plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties, regardless of whether it is woody or non-woody. This dual understanding is important for both scientific and practical discussions about herbs.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic