Cactus

Cacti are amazing plants that thrive in dry, hot deserts. They have special features that help them survive with very little water. Instead of leaves, most cacti have sharp spines. These spines protect them from animals and help shade the plant from the hot sun.

Storing Water

Cacti store water in their thick, fleshy stems. Some large cacti can hold hundreds of gallons of water. Their roots spread out wide near the surface to quickly absorb rainwater. The waxy coating on their skin helps prevent water loss.

Many different kinds of cactus growing in a garden.
Many different kinds of cactus growing in a garden. (Img by Calvin teo / Wikimedia Commons)

Desert Survivors

There are over 2,000 species of cacti. The saguaro cactus can grow over 40 feet tall and live for 200 years. Cacti bloom with beautiful flowers that attract bats, birds, and insects for pollination. Some cacti produce tasty fruit, like the prickly pear.

Fun Facts

  • The saguaro cactus can live for over 200 years.
  • Cacti spines are actually modified leaves.
  • Some cacti can survive temperatures of over 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

Did You Know?

The saguaro cactus does not grow its first arm until it is about 75 years old! These giant cacti are found only in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and Mexico.