From common to rare, Texas offers the experienced and inexperienced person options for gardening cacti! Cacti are “hard”to kill and easy to have. How cacti are classified (taxonomy) is ever – changing. You really need to read about YOUR cactus and what it “likes” as you may have better success.
Cacti come in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes; grow outdoors, on your patio, front porch, and indoors. Some tolerate shade; others, full sun. If you expect a hard freeze, it may be best to bring in cacti in your house, place in garage, or store in a green house.
According to Texas A&M, cacti are “easy to grow”.
Cactus family (Cactaceae) is one of the most striking, distinctive, diversified, and specialized groups in the plant kingdom. It includes about 2,000 species, and all of them are perennial, which according to Merriman-Webster dictionary means they are present at all seasons of a year.
According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas provides climate for more cacti than any other state. You may find the most varied and endangered cacti around the Big Bend area and far west and far south – west regions of Texas.
A cactus is defined as a plant with a thick, fleshy stem typically bearing spines, lacks leaves, and has brilliantly colored flowers. Most provide a stunning flower; many flowers have unique odors!
The botanical name for a cactus is Cactaceae; cacti are plural, cactus is singular.
Cacti are also succulents. A succulent, according to Merriam Webster, is any “juicy” plant and “having fleshy tissues that conserve moisture”.
Cacti are fun to grow: on your porch, garden or window sill; indoor or out, these plants are great for adults and children!
For a very detailed reading go to Texas A&M AggieHorticulture.