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Cactusπ΅
Cactaceae
γ΅γγγ³
The collective name for succulents in the Cactaceae family. About 2,000 species native to the New World (mainly the Americas), adapted to arid conditions. The typical form has a thickened water-storing stem and leaves reduced to spines arising from specialised areoles β the presence of areoles distinguishes true cacti from other succulents. Flowers are often brilliantly coloured, some blooming at night. Widely cultivated ornamentals worldwide. Prickly pear (Opuntia) fruit is edible.
Identification Points
- βThick water-storing stems; spherical, cylindrical, or flattened
- βLeaves reduced to spines arising from specialised areoles
- βLarge showy flowers with many tepals
Habitat
Arid regions (native); cultivated (pots)
Season
Varies by species
Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Leaf arrangement
Alternate
Leaf type
Simple
Growth form
Herb
Habitat
Grassland
Phylogenetic Positionγ΅γγγ³η§ β
Phylogenetic Position
Angiosperms > Eudicots > Core Eudicots > Caryophyllales > Cactaceae
Divergence Era
Paleogene (ca. 35 million years ago)
Sources & References
AI-generated, needs verification