Cacti vs. Succulents - A Guide for Plant Parents

SUCCULENTS VS. CACTI: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

CACTI VS SUCCULENTS Those adorable little plants in geometric pots crowding your windowsill? Chances are they're either cacti or succulents, but are they the same thing? Not quite! Though these desert dwellers share a love for dry environments, some key features set them apart. SUCCULENTS: THE WATER WARRIORS Imagine a plant with plump, juicy leaves or stems that store water like a built-in canteen. That's a succulent in a nutshell! Succulents come in a vast array of shapes, sizes, and colors, from the rosette-shaped Jade plant to the trailing String of Pearls. They belong to many different plant families, all united by their water-retention superpowers. CACTI: THE SPINY SUBSET OF SUCCULENTS Cacti are like the all-stars of the succulent world. They share the water-storing abilities of succulents, but with some unique adaptations for harsh desert life. HERE'S WHAT MAKES CACTI STAND OUT: Spines: Cacti are famous for their prickly defenses, deterring thirsty animals from taking a bite. Not all succulents have spines, but all cacti do. Areoles: These tiny bumps are a dead giveaway for a cactus. Spines, flowers, and even hair grow from areoles, not directly from the stem. Stems over Leaves: Cacti typically have modified stems that take on the water- storage role. Leaves are rare, and when present, they're usually small and temporary. Blooms: Cactus flowers are showstoppers! Often large and vibrantly colored, they attract pollinators during the cactus' brief flowering season.

SO, HOW DO YOU TELL THEM APART? The key lies in those areoles. If your plant has spiny bumps where new growth emerges, it's a cactus. If not, it's likely another type of succulent. Here's a handy cheat sheet: Spines and Areoles? It's a Cactus! Just Plump Leaves or Stems? Probably a Succulent (but not guaranteed). CHOOSING YOUR PERFECT PLANT Both cacti and succulents are fantastic low-maintenance plants. Cacti might be a better choice for forgetful waterers, thanks to their extreme drought tolerance. Succulents offer more variety in terms of form and texture. No matter which you choose, with a little research on your specific plant's needs, you can bring a touch of the desert into your home and enjoy these spiky or leafy wonders for years to come.