Characteristics of Cacti

Characteristics

• Cacti are a type of succulent plant that stores water in their stems
• They have thick, waxy stems that can expand to store water
• Typically have sharp, protective spines instead of leaves
• Spines can be modified leaves or branches that reduce water loss

Types of Cacti

• Opuntia: Prickly pear cacti, characterized by round, flat stems with small spines
• Cereus: Columnar cacti, often growing tall and slender
• Mammillaria: Globular cacti, with short, fine spines and vibrant flowers
• Echinocactus: Barrel cacti, with short, stout stems and prominent ribs

Adaptations

• Deep roots: Allow cacti to access water deep in the soil
• Waxy stems: Prevent water loss through transpiration
• CAM photosynthesis: Open their stomata at night, storing water and reducing water loss
• Drought tolerance: Can survive for extended periods without water

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Americas, from British Columbia to southern South America
• Found in dry, sunny areas, such as deserts and dry forests
• Often grow in rocky, well-draining soil

Uses

• Ornamental plants: Grown for their unique shapes and vibrant flowers
• Food source: Some species, like Opuntia, have edible fruits and stems
• Medicinal uses: Some species have been used to treat wounds and reduce inflammation

Characteristics of Cacti

• Cacti are a type of succulent plant that stores water in their stems
• They have thick, waxy stems that can expand to store water
• Typically have sharp, protective spines instead of leaves
• Spines can be modified leaves or branches that reduce water loss

Types of Cacti

• Opuntia: Characterized by round, flat stems with small spines, also known as Prickly pear cacti
• Cereus: Columnar cacti, often growing tall and slender
• Mammillaria: Globular cacti, with short, fine spines and vibrant flowers
• Echinocactus: Barrel cacti, with short, stout stems and prominent ribs

Adaptations of Cacti

• Deep roots allow cacti to access water deep in the soil
• Waxy stems prevent water loss through transpiration
• CAM photosynthesis enables cacti to open their stomata at night, storing water and reducing water loss
• Drought tolerance enables cacti to survive for extended periods without water

Distribution and Habitat of Cacti

• Native to the Americas, from British Columbia to southern South America
• Found in dry, sunny areas, such as deserts and dry forests
• Often grow in rocky, well-draining soil

Uses of Cacti

• Ornamental plants: Grown for their unique shapes and vibrant flowers
• Food source: Some species, like Opuntia, have edible fruits and stems
• Medicinal uses: Some species have been used to treat wounds and reduce inflammation

Learn about the unique features and types of cacti, including their water-storing stems and protective spines. Discover different types like Opuntia, Cereus, and Mammillaria.