A herb is the one having
(a) Green soft and short stems
(b) Woody short stems
(c) A number of flowers and fruits
(d) Annual growth

Options

A. Green soft and short stems
B. Woody short stems
C. A number of flowers and fruits
D. Annual growth

Answer

To determine the correct characteristic of a herb from the given options, let's analyze each option step by step:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Definition of a Herb**:
- A herb is typically defined as a plant with green, soft, and non-woody stems. They are usually small and have a shorter lifespan compared to shrubs and trees.

2. **Analyzing Option (a): Green soft and short stems**:
- This option describes the typical characteristics of herbs accurately. Herbs like basil, mint, and parsley have soft, green stems and are generally low-growing plants.
- **Conclusion**: This option is correct.

3. **Analyzing Option (b): Woody short stems**:
- Woody short stems are not characteristic of herbs; instead, they are more typical of shrubs. Shrubs have hard, woody stems that provide structural support.
- **Conclusion**: This option is incorrect.

4. **Analyzing Option (c): A number of flowers and fruits**:
- While herbs can produce flowers and fruits, the statement is too broad. This characteristic is more commonly associated with trees and shrubs, which often bear a greater number of flowers and fruits.
- **Conclusion**: This option is incorrect.

5. **Analyzing Option (d): Annual growth**:
- Annual growth refers to plants that complete their life cycle in one growing season. While some herbs may be annuals, this is not a defining characteristic of all herbs. Many herbs can be perennial as well.
- **Conclusion**: This option is incorrect.

### Final Conclusion:
The only correct option that accurately describes a herb is:
- **(a) Green soft and short stems**