Which term describes trees that lose their leaves every year?

• A. Deciduous
• B. Evergreen
• C. Coniferous
• D. Broadleaf

Answer: (A)

Leaf drop seasonality is being tested here. Trees that lose their leaves every year are described as deciduous. In temperate regions, deciduous trees shed most or all of their leaves in autumn to cope with cold winters and dry periods, then regrow new leaves in spring. This contrasts with evergreen trees, which retain foliage throughout the year. Coniferous trees are typically evergreen and bear cones, not deciduous leaves. Broadleaf describes leaf shape, and many broadleaf species can be either deciduous or evergreen, so it doesn’t specify annual leaf loss. Therefore, the term that describes trees that lose their leaves each year is deciduous.