CoimbatoreTaxi News
Cactus plants are quite unusual and are adapted to grow in hot and tropical climates and desert areas where there is very less rainfall. It is its anatomical and physiological features that helps it to conserve water and survive in such harsh environments. Its fleshy green stem performs the function of the leaves and carry out the photosynthesis process. When we think of cactus plants the first things that come to our mind are its spines which are nothing but its leaves. Let us find out about some more amazing cactus plant facts.
What are Facts about Cactus Plant?
There are more than 2000 cactus plant varieties which are found in various colors, shapes and forms. Some unique features of cactus plant species are as follows:
The cactus plants species are known as succulents as its organs like the stems, roots and leaves can store water during the rainy season so that the plant can survive during the drought period. This is possible because the thick stems of cactus consist of spongy tissue that can hold water. Moreover, it forces the water down into the roots and do not let it come to its surface. It is coated with a waxy substance that can prevent evaporation of water.
As we have already discussed, spines of cactus results from its modified leaves and they grow from specialized structures called the areoles. The size of the spines can vary from species to species and they can be as long as 15 cm. As the leaves are shrunk, they prevent loss of water through transpiration. Some cacti spines are light in color which help them to reflect maximum sunlight and keep the plant cool. Another function of the spines is to stop birds and animals from eating the plant as they eat them for water.
These plants have an extensively complicated root system which enable it to absorb water from the soil. Strangely, even small sized cactus plants have big roots. These roots are not very deep and may not extend beyond 10 cm below the surface of the ground. However, they often spread to wide areas covering almost 2 meters in diameter. The function of the roots is to anchor the plant well and obtain maximum underground water and minerals.
Cactus flowers are big in size and are found in a variety of colors like red, yellow, pink, etc. Some of the cactus flowers can stand for many days and others may die within a day. Many of these flowers bloom only during the night time and some of them require daylight. The nocturnal blooming are primarily pollinated by bats and other nocturnal insects and animals.
One of the most unique characteristics of cactus plant is that it has periods of blossom and periods of rest. During the growing phase, cactus require direct sunlight, high temperature, humidity, proper watering for rapid growth. While for the resting phase, it should be kept in cold temperatures, low humidity and needs once a week of watering.
Pachycereus pringlei is the tallest cactus plant with a height of about 20 m (66 ft) and Blossfeldia liliputana is the shortest with a height of just a few centimeters. Some cactus are perfect round in shape and look like a barrel, other are flat or oval and looks similar to ears. Other unique shapes of are that of chandeliers, curled snakes, starfish or wrinkled human face.
One of the most impressive cactus plant facts is that these plants serve as natural water reservoirs. The liquid stored in it is not clear like water but a thick viscous substance. This liquid is absolutely safe for human consumption. It can be obtained for drinking by scratching or making a hole in the columnar cactus. This fluid has saved several lives in the desert areas. Also refer to information on cactus plant.
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