Some are perennials such as the Gingers, Plumbago and those yellow flowers. Some do go dormant over our mild winters and come back in the spring. Other remain green all winter and even bloom on and off. Some are annuals. They bloom and die - often leaving seeds behind to sprout and grow the next year. Best to discard them when they turn brown.

If you want perennials make sure it says that on the tags. And make sure they're for your zone plant hardiness zone map). I'm in Zone 9a. I think you are in Zone 10 which is warmer in winter.

Plants we knew in NY may not grow here due to the winters being too mild or summers too hot for too long.

Gardening here in FL is a whole different ballgame than it was in NY and TN. There are great websites with all kinds of info for us to learn what thrives here and what doesn't.

Keep in mind what you see the stores selling here may or may not be suitable for your area (Zone 10?) Stores almost always carry plants not fit for the zone they're selling them in.