Softstem

Softstem is a descriptive term used in botany and horticulture to describe plant stems that are soft, flexible, and non-woody. It denotes an herbaceous habit in which stems do not develop the lignified tissue typical of woody plants. As a descriptive concept, softstem can apply across many species and families, regardless of their broader taxonomy or life cycle.

Characteristics of soft-stemmed plants include pliable stems, a lack of substantial wood, and growth patterns that are often annual or seasonal. These stems transport water and nutrients through vascular tissue but do not undergo secondary growth that thickens and hardens the stem. Environmental factors such as light, moisture, and temperature influence stem length and thickness, but the stems typically remain non-woody throughout their life.

Common examples of soft-stemmed plants encountered in gardens and markets include lettuce (Lactuca sativa), spinach (Spinacia oleracea), basil (Ocimum basilicum), cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), dill (Anethum graveolens), chives (Allium schoenoprasum), and celery. Many flowers and herbs in various families also exhibit soft stems, especially those grown as annuals or short-lived perennials.

In horticulture, the term helps describe cultivation practices related to handling, propagation, and pruning, and it can influence recommendations for support structures and regrowth expectations. It is not a formal taxonomic category but a practical description of plant habit and structure.