Deciduous plants are those that lose their leaves seasonally, typically in the autumn, as part of a natural cycle of dormancy and regeneration. During the winter, these plants remain leafless before new growth appears in the spring. Deciduous trees and shrubs are important in temperate climates for providing shade in the summer and allowing sunlight to reach the ground in the winter. Common deciduous trees include oaks, maples, and birches, which are often used in landscapes for their seasonal color and structural diversity.