What are trees and how are they different from smaller plants?

Trees are tall plants that have a thick, strong, and woody stem called a trunk. The trunk supports the plant and usually develops branches at some height above the ground.

Trees are different from smaller plants because of their greater height, stronger stem structure, and longer life span. Unlike herbs, trees do not have soft green stems, and unlike most shrubs, they usually have one main trunk instead of many branches starting near the ground.

Common examples of trees include mango, neem, banyan, and coconut trees. Their large size, woody trunk, and branching pattern make them easily different from herbs and shrubs.