Herbaceous plants, by definition, typically survive only one growing season. This means they complete their life cycle within a single year, from germination to flowering and seed production, then die back.

Here's why:

* Soft Stems: Herbaceous plants have soft, non-woody stems that are unable to survive the harsh conditions of winter.

* Annuals: The majority of herbaceous plants are classified as annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in a single year.

* Biennials: While some herbaceous plants are biennials (lasting for two years), they still only flower and produce seeds in the second year before dying.

* Perennials: A small number of herbaceous plants are perennials, meaning they live for more than two years. However, their above-ground parts die back every winter, with new growth emerging from underground structures like bulbs, rhizomes, or tubers in the spring.

Examples of herbaceous plants:

* Annuals: Marigolds, sunflowers, zinnias, petunias

* Biennials: Carrots, parsley, beets

* Perennials: Hostas, daylilies, lavender

It's important to note that there are some exceptions to this general rule. Certain perennial herbaceous plants, like ferns and some grasses, can have a lifespan of several years.