What term is used to refer to trees that produce seed-bearing cones and have thin leaves shaped like needles?

The term used to refer to trees that produce seed-bearing cones and have thin leaves shaped like needles is indeed "coniferous." Coniferous trees are known for their reproductive structures, which are cones, and their needle-like leaves, which are adapted to withstand harsh weather conditions and conserve water. This adaptation often allows them to thrive in various environments, particularly in cooler climates.

In contrast, the term "deciduous" describes trees that shed their leaves annually, typically in the autumn, which is different from the characteristics of coniferous trees. "Evergreen" refers to trees that retain their leaves throughout the year, which can include conifers since many conifers are also evergreen. However, evergreen is a broader category that encompasses more than just needle-leaved trees. "Herbaceous" refers to non-woody plants, which do not have the structure or properties of trees at all. Hence, the specificity of "coniferous" aligns perfectly with the characteristics described in the question.