A
shrub is a small to medium-sized woody plant. It is distinguished from a
tree by its multiple stems and shorter
height, usually under 6 m (20 ft) tall. Plants of many species may grow either into shrubs or trees, depending on their growing conditions. Small, low shrubs, generally less than 2 m (6.6 ft) tall, such as
lavender,
periwinkle and most small garden varieties of
roses, are often termed
subshrubs or
bushes.