Question
What is the difference between woody and non-woody plants? I already know that non-woody plants die back during the winter, but the roots are still intact; and that woody plants are stronger. Can you please tell me any more facts about woody and non-woody plants? Thank you for your time.
P.S. Do woody plants live longer too?  

Answer
Woody plants are decidious and evergreen shrubs. basically, any plant that does not die back to the ground is considered a woody plant. trees and shrubs would be considered woody plants. Perennials are considered non-woody plants. any plant that dies back each year, then comes up again would be a non woody plant. Annuals, tho not always thought of in this way, would also be considered non-woody plants. In that light, some palms may be considered non-woody, altho that may be up to some debates, as a plant may be considered a woody plant, it is actually part of the grass family, which would be non-woody (wanted to throw that in, as there are exceptions to may rules). hope this answers your question a bit more, you are on the right track with what you think the difference is. Generally, woody plants would live longer, altho non-woody plants (perennials), can spread, creating larger groupings of plants, which can be split, thus will live a very long time, and still others just dont seem to die.

Mark