We associate cacti with bone-dry, hot desert landscapes. This idea is true for most cactus species. What is less known is that cacti also thrive in tropical rainforests, are completely frost-resistant and provide us with edible fruits. This profile summarizes all the exciting details.
What are the central characteristics of cacti?
Cacti are perennial plants with over 1.800 species growing in different shapes and sizes. They are found in North, Central and South America, are often covered in thorns, bloom strikingly in different colors and can be sensitive to frost or hardy.
Cactus profile – central features at a glance
Cacti are brilliant survivors in the plant kingdom. Most of their genera and species thrive as succulents. During rainy weather, the plants absorb every drop of water and store it inside for dry times. The following profile summarizes what else characterizes cactus plants:
- Cacti (Cactaceae) are perennial shrubs, more rarely trees
- More than 100 genera with 1,800 species and countless varieties
- Growth height from 1 cm to 500 cm and beyond
- Bizarre body shapes from round, disc-shaped or crouching to slim, column-like
- Areas of distribution: North, Central and South America from deserts and mountains to the rainforest
- Frequently covered with thorns of varying degrees
- Striking flowers in all shades
- Sensitive to frost to completely hardy
Representing the sheer unmissable diversity of species, the golden ball cactus (Echinocactus grusonii) is a popular representative of desert cacti. The 130 cm high and 80 cm wide body is decorated with gold-colored, 3-5 cm long thorns. In spring and summer, older specimens bloom with breathtaking beauty. Among cactus fans, this gem is known with a wink as the 'mother-in-law seat'.
One of the most famous leaf cacti without thorns is known as the Christmas cactus (Schlumberga). Native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, these cacti love partially shaded locations and bloom in the middle of winter.
Opuntias provide delicious fruits
We would like to highlight one of the most popular cactus genera at this point. Opuntias are known by the German name prickly pear because their beautiful flowers turn into edible fruits. Prickly pears can be eaten fresh like fruit. The fascinating desert cacti are gentle because they mostly do without strong thorns.
Tip
Cacti are not poisonous. The thorns, some of which are as hard as steel, should still be given due respect when caring for them. Even small skin abrasions can lead to serious infections. Therefore, please always wear thorn-proof gloves (€18.00 on Amazon) with long cuffs when you approach your cacti.
