What is a characteristic of herbaceous stems?

Herbaceous stems are typically characterized by their softness and lack of woody tissue, which distinguishes them from woody stems. This means they are generally flexible and not as thick or strong as woody stems. While some herbaceous plants can produce flowers and fruit, many of them mainly reproduce through seeds or vegetative means and may not bear fruit in the same way that woody plants do.

Understanding the nature of herbaceous stems helps clarify why the characteristic "do not bear fruit" aligns with their common traits, especially when considering the broader context of plant types. Many herbaceous plants are annuals or perennials that may flower, but they do not develop fruit in the same manner as some woody plants, which rely on their sturdy structure to support heavier fruit. Therefore, the focus on herbaceous stems emphasizes their softer composition and differing reproductive strategies in comparison to woody plants.