Yes, a plant is a living thing. While they may not exhibit movement in the same way animals do, plants display many characteristics that are fundamental to life.
Firstly, plants grow. They start as seeds, and through the process of germination, they develop roots, stems, and leaves. This continuous growth is a clear indicator of life.
Secondly, plants metabolize. They convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, a chemical process that allows them to produce food. This shows that they have a system for obtaining energy, which is a vital characteristic of living organisms.
Plants also respond to their environment. They may grow towards light (a phenomenon known as phototropism) and can react to gravity (gravitropism), displaying an ability to interact with their surroundings.
Moreover, plants reproduce. They have various means of reproduction, from seeds to vegetative propagation, allowing for the continuation of their species.
Lastly, plants maintain homeostasis, regulating their internal conditions to survive in various environments. All these aspects substantiate the classification of plants as living things.