‘Cactus’ refers to a large family of plants made up of many different
species that come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. They are native to
South America, but cactus plants and seeds have been spread around the
world since ancient times, and may be found growing almost anywhere
today.
Over centuries, the body of the cactus has evolved in various ways so as
to be perfectly adapted for life in a harsh desert environment. For
instance, the leaves of the cactus are modified into spines, which are better
at conserving water and surviving in hot temperatures. The sharp
spines are also useful in warding off predators.
Cacti have an extensive system of shallow roots surrounding them. These roots lie close to the surface so that they can catch rainwater almost as soon as it hits the ground. They extend several feet away from the plant, ready to absorb as much water as possible.
The stem of the cactus acts as a reservoir for water. The skin has a thick, waxy coating that helps to retain moisture by preventing water from evaporating.
Some types of cacti are cultivated as food, notably prickly pears. Prickly pear fruits are used to make salads, jelly and wine. Some species are cultivated as living fences. Cacti are also widely grown as ornamental plants for their unusual shapes and beautiful, multicoloured flowers.
Cacti have an extensive system of shallow roots surrounding them. These roots lie close to the surface so that they can catch rainwater almost as soon as it hits the ground. They extend several feet away from the plant, ready to absorb as much water as possible.
The stem of the cactus acts as a reservoir for water. The skin has a thick, waxy coating that helps to retain moisture by preventing water from evaporating.
Some types of cacti are cultivated as food, notably prickly pears. Prickly pear fruits are used to make salads, jelly and wine. Some species are cultivated as living fences. Cacti are also widely grown as ornamental plants for their unusual shapes and beautiful, multicoloured flowers.
