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~ Cactus ~
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 All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. A succulent is a plant that has evolved in various ways to survive in its arid, hostile environment. These plants are able to store moisture in succulent tissue that occurs in their leaves, stems or roots. One of these features occurs in all succulents. Many leaf succulents have a waxy coating on their stems and leaves, helping them retain moisture. Stem succulents have few or no leaves. The absence of leaves aid in the prevention of water loss through evaporation. Root succulents survive long periods of drought by storing water and nutrients below the surface of the ground.
Cacti have adapted to extremely arid environments and exhibit a wide range of features which conserve water. Cacti are almost exclusively New World plants native to North America, South America and the West Indies. Cacti are well adapted to life with little precipitation. Their leaves have evolved into spines, which allow both less water to evaporate through transpiration than leaves, and they protect the plant from water seeking animals. Cacti grow in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from round to pole-like and tall. Some produce beautiful flowers and certain species are night blooming, as they are pollinated by nocturnal insects and small animals, mostly moths and bats. Some varieties bear edible fruit.
The Plant Stand has a number of succulent and cacti species that are cultivated for use as house plants, as well as for ornamental gardens. Both are perfect for xerophilic gardens or a sunny window. Available sizes are: 3", 4", 6", 8" and 10". We also have a selection of 3" grafted cactus and cactus gardens in 4", 6" and 8" sizes. Larger specimens are available through special order.
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