A cactus, part of the plant family Cactaceae, is a spiny succulent plant typically found in dry environments. With over 1750 species with a wide range of shapes and sizes, cacti have adapted to be drought resistant by conserving water with thickened flesh, evolving without leaves, and using spines to reduce air flow and provide soft shade over their surfaces. Cacti remain dormant for long periods and are capable of reacting to sporadic rainfall by quickly expanding and absorbing water when it is available. Today, cacti continue to be the prominent and iconic plant type associated with many desert regions, while also being a popular low-maintenance household plant with playful forms.
