31st Issue Vol. 4 No.

4 ISSN 2094-1765 April 2011

THE UNIQUE WORLD OF CACTI

A cactus is a member of the plant
family Cactaceae. Their distinctive
appearance is a result of adaptations
to conserve water in dry and/or hot
environments. In most species, the
stem has evolved to become
photosynthetic and succulent, while
the leaves have evolved into spines.
Many species are used for
ornamental plants, and some are
also grown for fodder, forage, fruits,
cochineal, and other uses.

Cacti come in a wide range of

shapes and sizes. The tallest is
Pachycereus pringlei, with a
maximum recorded height of 19.2 m,
and the smallest is Blossfeldia
liliputiana, only about 1 cm in
diameter at maturity. Cactus flowers
are large, and like the spines arise
from distinctive features called
areoles.

(Left) Ferocactus pilosus

(Mexican lime cactus) growing
south of Saltillo, Coahuila,
northeast Mexico

Distribution

The cactus family is native to the Americas, where their range extends from Patagonia to
southern Canada, but they are densest and most diverse in the regions of northern
Mexico and the southern tropics of Argentina and Bolivia. Rhipsalis baccifera is the one
exception; it is native to both the Americas and the Old World, where it is found in
tropical Africa, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. It is thought to have colonized the Old World
within the last few thousand years, probably by being carried as seeds in the digestive
tracts of migratory birds. Many other species have become naturalized outside the
Americas after having been introduced by people, especially in Australia, Hawaii, and
the Mediterranean region. Cacti inhabit diverse regions, from coastal plains to high
mountain areas.

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Adaptations to dry environment

With a few exceptions, cacti are

succulent plants and, like other
succulents, they have a variety of
adaptations that enable them to survive
in hot and dry environments.

(Below) Pereskia grandifolia:

Pereskia is a weakly succulent
genus, which also possesses leaves,
and is believed to be similar to the
ancestor of all cacti.

Organ pipe cactus in Arizona.

In most species of cacti the leaves have evolved into spines which not only defend the
cactus against herbivores but also provide shade that lowers the plant's water loss
through transpiration. The spines grow from specialized structures called areoles,
homologous to the nodes on other plants. Very few members of the family have leaves,
and when present these are usually rudimentary and soon fall off; they are typically awl-
shaped and only 1–3 mm. long. Two genera, Pereskia and Pereskiopsis, do however
retain large, non-succulent leaves 5–25 cm long, and non-succulent stems. Pereskia has

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now been determined to be the ancestral genus from which all other cacti evolved.[6]
Enlarged stems carry out photosynthesis and store water. Unlike other succulents, the
stem is the only part of many cacti where this takes place. Cacti often have a waxy
coating on their stems to prevent water loss and potentially repel water from their stems.
Because of the plants' high water-retention ability, detached parts of the plant can
survive for long periods and then grow new roots from anywhere on the plant body when
rain comes.

Many species of cactus have long, sharp spines.

The bodies of many cacti have become thickened during the course of evolution, and
form water-retentive tissue that is in the optimal shape of a sphere or cylinder
(combining highest possible volume with lowest possible surface area). By reducing its
surface area, the body of the plant is also protected against excessive sunlight. The
plant body itself is also capable of absorbing moisture (through the epidermis and the
spines), which is especially important for plants that receive most of their moisture in the
form of fog.

Most cacti have a short growing season and long dormancy. For example, a fully-grown
saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea) can absorb up to 3,000 liters of water in ten days. This is
helped by the ability to form new roots quickly. Two hours after rain following a relatively
long drought, root formation begins in response to the moisture. Apart from a few
exceptions, an extensively ramified root system is formed, which spreads out beneath
the surface. The salt concentration in the root cells is relatively high, so when moisture is
encountered it is quickly absorbed.

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 Cacti often have very shallow roots that
spread out widely close to the surface to
collect water, an adaptation to infrequent
rains. In one case, a young saguaro only
12 cm tall had a root system covering an
area 2 m in diameter, but with no roots
more than 10 cm deep.[8] The larger
columnar cacti also develop a taproot,
primarily for anchoring, but also to reach
deeper water supplies and mineral
nutrients.[8]

Areoles are unique features to cacti. The

areole appears like a cushion with a
diameter of up to 15 mm, and is formed
by two opposing buds in the angles of a
leaf[citation needed]. The upper bud
develops into either a blossom or a side
shoot, while the lower bud develops into
spines. The two buds of the areoles can
lie very close together or be separated by
several cm.

(Left) A fully-grown saguaro

(Carnegiea gigantea) can absorb up to
3,000 liters of water in ten days.

Like other types of succulents, cacti reduce water loss through transpiration by
Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). Here, transpiration does not take place during the
day at the same time as photosynthesis, but at night. The plant stores the carbon
dioxide, chemically linking it to malic acid, until nighttime. Because transpiration takes
place during the cooler, more humid night hours, water loss through transpiration is
significantly reduced.

Reproductive ecology

Closeup image of a cactus flower

(Echinopsis spachiana) showing
large number of stamens.

Some cactus flowers form long tubes

(up to 30 cm) so only certain species of
moths can reach the nectar, and
therefore pollinate the blossoms. There
are also specializations for species of
bats, hummingbirds and bees.

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Blooming Echinopsis oxygona. The sweet-smelling flower opens towards evening
and dies the following morning.[citation needed]

The duration of flowering is highly variable. Some flowers, such as those of Selenicereus
grandiflorus (Queen of the Night), are only fully open for two hours at night, while other
species may flower for a whole week. Most cacti are self-incompatible, and thus require
a pollinator. A few are autogamous and are able to pollinate themselves. Fraileas only
open their flowers completely in exceptional circumstances; they mostly pollinate
themselves or others with their flowers closed ("cleistogamy"). The flower itself has also
undergone a further development: the ovary tends to be highly protected by thorns, hairs
and scales. Seed formation is prolific, and the fruits are mostly fleshy, pleasant tasting
and conspicuously colored. Goats, birds, ants, mice and bats may contribute to seed
dispersal.

History

Among the remains of the Aztec

civilization, cactus-like plants can be
found in pictorial representations,
sculpture and drawings, with many
depictions resembling Echinocactus
grusonii. Tenochtitlan (the earlier name
of Mexico City) means "place of the
sacred cactus." The coat of arms of
Mexico to this day shows an eagle
perched on a cactus while holding a
snake, an image which is at the center of
the Aztec origin myth.

(Left) Cultivated Notocactus warasii

on display at the San Diego County
Fair, California, USA

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Christopher Columbus brought the first melocactus to Europe

Cultivation

With few exceptions, the vast majority of cacti in habitat almost always are found
growing in mineral based soils. Epiphytic cacti are the exception and prefer soils rich in
organic materials, however, cacti in this group which prefer these types of soils produce
healthier plants when allowed to dry completely between waterings. Some species of
cacti such as Toumaya papyracantha (formerly Pediocactus papyracantha -- found in
the high mesas of New Mexico) are mycorrhizal symbionts with the roots of various
species of grasses[dubious – discuss] and grow underground on the roots of these wild
grasses, only emerging above ground and initiating photosynthesis for sexual
reproduction and flowering, forming deciduous cactus bodies that die back in winter or
during droughts.

Prickly pear is one of the most common types of cacti found in North America

The vast majority of commercial "cactus soil mixes" which contain organic materials are
unsuitable for growing most terrestrial cacti, and many contain pumice, which exudes
traces of heavy metals which will rot the roots of cacti if grown in these medium over a
period of years. Surprisingly, most cacti prefer a mineral based soil cut with about half
sand and allowed to dry out completely between waterings.

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 Lobivia tiegeliana Astrophytum Super Kabuto

Although cacti are

adapted to hot deserts
and other xerophytic
environments, most
cacti evolved in
mountainous areas and
require moderate cold
and/or cool night
temperatures for some
period of the year to
initiate regular
flowering.

(Left) red flowers of

Rebutia poecilantha

Overwatering of cacti is the single biggest cause of plant loss. Cacti are subject to
Fusarium infections in their vascular cambium (the bundle of fibers and the "ring" inside
the center of a cactus visible when cut in cross section) when overwatered or maintained
in soils with high organic content[citation needed]. Fusarium mycelium typically grow into
the cambium channels and plug up the plants transport system, causing tissue death
and the classic rotting and collapsing observed when you overwater a cactus plant. Cacti
are easy to grow if allowed to dry completely between waterings. Many species have
specific periods of dormancy and should not be watered during these periods.

Uses

Cacti, cultivated by people worldwide, are a familiar sight as potted plants, houseplants
or in ornamental gardens in warmer climates. They often form part of xeriphytic (dry)
gardens in arid regions, or raised rockeries. Some countries, such as Australia, have
water restrictions in many cities, so drought-resistant plants are increasing in popularity.

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Numerous species have entered widespread cultivation, including members of
Echinopsis, Mammillaria and Cereus among others.

Escobaria minima

Escobaria wissmannii Oroya peruviana

Cacti can be used for fencing material where there is a lack of either natural resources
or financial means to construct a permanent fence. This is often seen in arid and warm

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climates, such as the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This is known as a cactus fence. Cactus
fences are often used by homeowners and landscape architects for home security
purposes. The sharp thorns of the cactus deter unauthorized persons from entering
private properties, and may prevent break-ins if planted under windows and near
drainpipes.

Many species of cacti

have commercial uses;
some cacti bear edible
fruit, such as the prickly
pear and Hylocereus,
which produces dragon
fruit or pitaya. The
edible cactus, or nopal,
industry in Mexico is
worth $150 million each
year and approximately
10,000 farmers
cultivate the plant.
Opuntia are also used
as host plants for
cochineal bugs in the
cochineal dye industry
in Central America.
Particularly in South
America dead pillar
cacti can yield valuable
wood for construction.
Rebutia pallida

Echinomastus durangensis Ferobergia hybride

Some cacti are also of pharmaceutical significance. The peyote, Lophophora williamsii,
is a well-known psychoactive agent used by Native Americans in the southwestern
United States. Some species of Echinopsis also have psychoactive properties. For
example, the San Pedro cactus, a common specimen found in many garden centers, is
known to contain mescaline.

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Some species have become endangered in the wild because of overharvesting for sale
as an ornamental plant. All cacti are covered by the Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, and many species, by virtue of their
inclusion in Appendix 1, are fully protected.

How to Grow Cactus

A common misconception is that cacti require special care, as these plants are unique
compared to conventional plants. But the truth is that cactus plants are popular for their
low maintenance. Here are a few tips on how to grow cactus successfully...

Cactus plants are unique for

their anatomical and
physiological features. Most of
them have fleshy stems and
spines, but lack leaves. There
are many types of cacti, which
differ in the size and color. While
some of the cactus plants sport
leaves, some others lack spines.
Usually, cactus plants denote
those which have spines and
succulent stems, but jungle
cacti, which are natives to
rainforests, lack these features.
They are very different in their appearance and growing conditions. Hence, it is
important to understand the type of plant, before buying it or growing it. It should be
taken care of as per the requirement of the particular species. In spite of all the
misconception, cactus remains a very popular plant for both indoor and outdoor use. But
there are still people who think that it is very difficult to take care of these plants. The fact
is that growing cacti is very easy, as they require less care and maintenance.

Lobivia cinnabarina Lobivia peclardiana

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How to Grow Cactus?
The popularity of cacti is attributed to their unique looks and low maintenance. These
plants are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, which can attract any person. If
you are a plant lover, you too can grow cactus with the help of the following guidelines
regarding how to grow cactus.

• The first step is the purchase of a cactus plant. Decide on the variety of the
cactus plant you like and search for it in greenhouses and gardens. Make sure
that you are buying a healthy plant of average size. If you go for very small ones,
it may sometimes take years to grow to a standard size.
• Due care must be given while choosing a planting medium or soil for the cactus
plants. Special potting soil, which is meant for these plants are available in the
market. You can use that or make one by mixing coarse sand, peat and pearlite.
Clay pots are the best option for cactus plants. The pot should be three to four
times the size of the plant. Fill the pot with the planting medium, which should be
dry.
• Refrain from watering for a week after the planting. During this time, the plant will
be able to adjust to the new soil or planting medium. Avoidance of water during
this time will prevent rotting of the roots. After one week, water the plant and
repeat the watering weekly. During winters, watering should be restricted to once
a month.
• Most of the cactus plants love sunlight, especially the ones with spines. They
should be placed in direct sunlight. Others, which do not prefer sunlight, should
be kept in shade. If the sun loving cactus are kept indoors, then place it near a
heat lamp.
• Make it a point to check the plant for any unhealthy symptoms like drooping, or
change of color. The problem can be over watering or deficiency of sunlight.
Adjust these factors and see the difference.

Growing Jungle Cacti

There are two types of cacti, the

conventional ones with succulent
stems and spines, which are suited
for desert-like habitats, and the ones
which are natives to the rainforests.
Some plants of the latter category
lack the features of conventional
cacti and may look different. These
cacti need a different medium to
grow. A good potting mixture for
such plants can be made by mixing
25% of orchid bark and same
quantities of potting soil and peat
with 20% pearlite and 5% coarse
gravel. Water these plants once a
week, or in very hot conditions,
twice.
Mammillaria slevinii

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These plants need the sun in the mornings and shade in the afternoons. Take care that this plant
is not in full shade, full sun, morning shade or full afternoon sun. These conditions can prove
detrimental to the health of the plant. There are some jungle cacti, which prefer full sun for their
growth. So if you are selecting a jungle cacti, it will be better to study the growth conditions of the
plant and then proceed.

Cactus Plant Care Tips

Even though this plant is touted as low maintenance plants, there is some information on cactus
plants that can help you take care of your plant properly. The following are some tips regarding
growing cactus plants.

• Adequate sunlight is very necessary for cactus plants. Keep indoor cacti on windowsills
or other places, where they get sufficient sunlight.
• The pots in which they are planted should have good drainage, as water retention can
cause rotting of the roots.
• Cactus plants that grow in a vertical direction need pots with a diameter of about half the
length of the plant. If the plant has a horizontal growth, the diameter of the pot should be
two inches more than the width of the plant.
• The golden rule regarding growing cactus is that you should not over water this plant.
Water retention is fatal for the plant, as they may die due to rotting. Water the plant if the
planting medium is absolutely dry.

Now you are ready to grow cactus plants. Start with the type you like the most and you will be
surprised at how easy it is to grow cactus plants. You can gradually increase the number and
variety of such plants in your house and add to the decor.

The Urban Gardener is an official electronic publication (in PDF Format) of the Plant
Biotechnology Project, Research & Development Center, Rizal Technological
University, Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City, Philippines. It is published monthly. For
more information, please inquire thru email: [email protected] or [email protected]
and landline (+632) 534-8267 Local 135 or Fax (+632) 534-9710.
Edited by N.R. Bautista © April 2011

The Plant Biotechnology Project Committee is composed of: Alexander B. Quilang,

Norberto R. Bautista, & Jovita A. Anit.

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