What is the difference between cactus and succulents

They are called areoles. A perfect example is the Star Cactus — Astrophytum Asterias. Because cacti are genetically related, they all share one defining characteristic—areoles.

Areoles are round, white bumps on the bodies of cacti that look like cotton balls. Some succulents are confused for cacti on a regular basis. Aloe and Haworthia are commonly mistaken for cacti because of their spiky, spiny leaves. Agave is also on this list because its leaves have sharp tips that look similar to the spines on a cactus. The trickiest succulents to distinguish from cacti, though, are Euphorbia.

Many species of Euphorbia have long, cylindrical stems with lots of prickles. One of the only things that differentiate these Euphorbia from cacti is their lack of areoles. Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. In This Article Expand. Indoor Cactus Plant Profile.

Featured Video. The unique shapes and colors that have come to define succulents are what has made them a popular houseplant in recent years. Succulents feature thick, fleshy leaves that hold water and nutrients during times of drought. Their root structures are typically shallow and close to the surface or the soil to absorb as much moisture as possible. Many types of succulents are equipped with ribs, allowing them to expand in order to hold more water and also get smaller to reduce the surface area exposed to the sun.

There are also a number of internal chemical processes that can help the plant retain water. Related: Make a Succulent Wreath! A defining feature of cacti is yet another way succulents can hold their moisture. A waxy, fuzzy, or spiny outer surface creates a micro-habitat of humidity that reduces air movement around the plant and helps it to stay cool and hydrated. These spines are also a helpful tool to protect against predators. The areoles developed as a kind of branch from the main plant.

Some succulents are mistaken for cacti just because they have small thorns or spines. Plants can have these features without being cacti, because they do not have areoles. Cacti evolved 30 to 40 million years ago in the Americas, where today the native plants can be found stretching all the way from Patagonia to parts of western Canada.

Thank you. Very clearly described what is a cacti and which ones are succulents. Leave a Reply:. Share Print. Recent Posts Blog Home. Archives All Archives. Tags All Tags. Recent Posts. The Blue Potato Bush November 9, Fall Leaves November 8, Trish: These shrubs are known as Mexican Belinda J.

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