1001 Space Earth Nature Evolution Fossils and Prehistoric Life Dinosaurs Simple Animals Insects and Spiders Fish Amphibians Reptiles Birds Sea Mammals Land Mammals Plant Kingdom How Plants Live Unusual Plants Ecology Conservation Animal Behaviour Pets and Farm Animals History Human World Science and Technology

What is an evergreen tree? An evergreen tree is one that keeps its leaves all year round. Most conifer trees are evergreen. They can be found in most parts of the world, except the hotter parts of the tropics. Broadleaf trees from cool climates usually lose their leaves in the autumn, but those that grow in hot, dry parts of the world are often evergreen. Their leaves usually have a waxy coating to stop them losing too much water in the heat of the sun. Many North African trees survive by having spiny or needle-like leaves, which reduce water loss and deter grazing animals.   Previous: Back Book: 1001 Section: Nature Chapter: Plant Kingdom