A shrub is a type of plant that is typically smaller than a tree and has multiple woody stems. Shrubs can vary in size, shape, and color, and they often produce flowers and fruits. They are commonly used in gardens and landscaping to provide structure, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. Shrubs can be evergreen, meaning they retain their leaves year-round, or deciduous, which means they lose their leaves in the fall. Some popular examples of shrubs include boxwood, hydrangea, and rose bushes. They play an important role in ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various wildlife species.