for the past many years; over many years

(of a plant) living or continuing for more than two years; usually refers to herbs that live through many seasons.

literally "after many years a daughter-in-law finally becomes a mother-in-law"; used to describe someone who has finally attained a position of authority or success after a long, difficult period of subservience or hard work

A plant that lives for more than two years, including woody plants like pines and cypresses.