What species lack seed leaves in emerging shoots?

Emerging shoots of established perennials typically lack seed leaves, also known as cotyledons, because these plants reproduce primarily through established root systems rather than from seeds. Established perennials have already developed a growth pattern during their previous seasons and rely on their root structure to produce new shoots.

Annuals and biennials, on the other hand, rely heavily on seeds for reproduction. Annuals complete their life cycle in one year, germinating, growing, flowering, and dying within that time frame. Similarly, biennials take two years to complete their cycle but still utilize seeds and cotyledons in their first-year growth. Woody plants, which include trees and shrubs, also produce seeds and therefore have cotyledons in their initial growth phase. Established perennials, in contrast, leverage the energy stored in their roots to push up new growth, bypassing the need for cotyledons.