What is a common feature of trees?

The correct choice highlights that trees produce persistent, woody tissue on a main stem, which is a defining characteristic of what distinguishes trees from other types of plants. Woody tissue enables trees to achieve greater height and support larger structures, allowing them to exist over many years. This characteristic is essential for their role in ecosystems as they provide habitat, produce oxygen, and contribute to the overall landscape.

In contrast, the other options describe features that do not align with the defining attributes of trees. For example, being typically short plants under 10 feet describes shrubs or small plants, not trees. Having multiple stems with non-woody tissue applies more to certain plants like bushes and herbaceous plants, which contrasts with the single main stem and woody nature of trees. Growing in dry, arid environments is not exclusive to trees, as many trees can also thrive in diverse moisture conditions. Thus, the specific feature of producing woody tissue on a main stem accurately represents one of the essential characteristics that define trees in the broader category of plant life.