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Mar 3, 2023 · Their roots and stems are crucial to their survival, as they provide support, water storage, and nutrient absorption. In this article, we will take a closer look at the anatomy and function of cactus roots and stems.
Jun 1, 2024 · Cacti generally have thick herbaceous or woody chlorophyll-containing stems. Cacti can be distinguished from other succulent plants by the presence of areoles , small cushionlike structures with trichomes (plant hairs) and, in almost all species, spines or barbed bristles (glochids).
Mar 4, 2024 · Some cacti have stems that are long and cylindrical, while others may have flattened or segmented stems. These variations in stem morphology help cacti adapt to different environmental conditions and perform specific functions, such as water storage or providing shade.
Cactus stems are often ribbed or fluted with a number of ribs which corresponds to a number in the Fibonacci numbers (2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34 etc.). This allows them to expand and contract easily for quick water absorption after rain, followed by retention over long drought periods.
Stems: The Main Part of a Cactus. Visibly defining all cacti is their essential core structure – the columnar or stem-like central component often referred to as a trunk. This vital part supports the entire plant and varies in shape among different species.
The stem is the part that allows cacti to be succulents – plants that can store lots of water. For some cactus species, the stem can hold up to 90% of the plant’s total weight in water! This water storage ability helps cacti survive hot, dry climates.
Cacti are perennial plants. Their stems are fleshy or succulent, and are cylindrical or flattened in shape. The stems are green-colored, and are photosynthetic, usually performing this function instead of leaves, which are greatly reduced in abundance or even absent in most mature cacti.
