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Cacti
| The Cactus Cacti are flowering succulent plants with leaves that developed into spines over millions of years. These spines help protect the sometimes massive stems from intruders seeking moisture that is stored there. Cacti grow from an "areole" at the top of the plant where the spikes and flowers and sometimes fruit appear. The growth pattern is sort of like turning an inside-out sleeve right by putting your hand around and through the sleeve.
Most Cacti, except for one species in Southern Africa, are native to the Western Hemisphere. They thrive in very arid climates, but can be found in temperate climate such as the Great Plains-- especially the Prickly Pear cactus. All cacti have flowers at least some time in their life cycle. Since most cacti bloom at night, their flowers are pollinated by moths and nectar-eating bats. Otherwise they are pollinated in the usual way: by bees and humming birds.
The stately saguaro cactus with its upturned arms is probable the most recognizable cactus. It is found in a small area in Southeast Arizona. Contrary to popular belief and advertisements it is not found in Texas. The prickly pear cactus, with its hand-upon-hand structure, is found far and wide. Native Americans used it for food and one can find it in candy and teas, and stripped and ready to eat. Cacti have been around for more than 30 million years and will continue to be a part of the landscape in the American Southwest.
Now you can bring a little of the desert into your home, no matter where you reside. Many online shopping sites offer boxed cactus gift sets that are shipped fresh directly from various cactus nurseries in the desert regions of the United states. |