Which type of trees and shrubs shed their leaves at the end of the growing season?

Deciduous trees and shrubs are characterized by their seasonal behavior of shedding leaves at the end of the growing season, typically in response to changing environmental conditions such as temperature and daylight. This adaptation helps them conserve water and energy during the colder months when conditions are less favorable for growth. Deciduous species, such as oak and maple trees, will produce new leaves when conditions improve, typically in the spring.

In contrast, coniferous trees, like pines and spruces, retain their leaves (needles) throughout the year and are often adapted to withstand harsh winters. Evergreen plants, which include some shrubs and trees, also maintain their foliage year-round, showcasing a different survival strategy. The term "annual" refers to plants that complete their life cycle in one growing season, which is unrelated to the leaf-shedding behavior of trees and shrubs.