Have you ever wondered, those little guys who are so resilient under the sun, what kind of plants are they? That's right, I'm talking about those adorable cacti! Today, let's explore the secrets of this mysterious cactus family together!
Cacti, also known as palm cacti, king of the trees, flame, fire palm... don't they sound cool? Actually, they are the national flower of Mexico! Cacti belong to the Cactaceae family, Cactaceae genus, and are the most common houseplants. Their native lands are numerous, including the tropical regions of North and South America, the tropical continents of Asia and nearby islands, and South Africa, all of which are their homes!
Did you know? Cacti are a green miracle in the desert! How do they survive in the dry desert environment? The secret lies in their leaves, which have evolved into sharp spines, greatly reducing the surface area for water evaporation. Their fleshy stems act like a small reservoir, storing large amounts of water to provide necessary support for the plant. In addition, the epidermis of cacti is covered with a thick layer of wax, which further prevents water loss, allowing them to survive tenaciously in extremely arid environments.
The variety of cacti is almost countless, including red-top green cacti, soft-spined cacti, Old Man Cacti... each has its own unique charm. For example, the red-top green cactus has gorgeous and delicate colors, making it look even more beautiful; the soft-spined cactus has very dense, inwardly-curving spines that don't prick at all, making it very suitable for families with children or people who are afraid of being pricked by cactus spines.
Although cacti are easy to care for, if you want them to grow healthier and more beautiful, you still need some tips. Here are some tips for caring for cacti:
1. Light: Cacti love plenty of sunlight, but they can be shaded appropriately during the summer noon to prevent sunburn.
2. Watering: Cacti are very drought-tolerant, so don't overwater them. Follow the principle of "dry is better than wet", and generally water once or twice a month in summer.
3. Soil: They prefer loose, well-draining sandy soil, which can be prepared by mixing leaf mold, perlite, and river sand.
4. Temperature: They are heat-tolerant and can still grow normally in high summer temperatures, but the temperature needs to be kept above 5°C in winter.
In addition to their ornamental value, cacti have many practical uses. For example, the tender stems of cacti are edible, with a crisp and tender texture and a light fragrance; the sap of cacti can be used to treat burns, reduce swelling, and relieve pain; cacti can also absorb harmful substances such as formaldehyde to purify the indoor air.
The cactus family is truly amazing and lovely! They not only have strong vitality but also high ornamental and practical value. Come and embrace this magical plant family and let them add a touch of green to your life!