All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti—at least that was what I was taught for decades, although I find whispers on the Internet that this is no longer considered a truth. Cacti are New World—except one species in southern Africa. Cacti have spines not thorns (modified leaves vs modified branches). The strange growths and textures of the cacti exterior help it conserve water in part by trapping an air layer that reduces air movement and helps the plant retain water.
13 September 2014 at 9:22 am
Pooh says:
Hmm, I think jade plant is a succulent, but not a cactus. Of course, this is only an unverified claim, as I have not searched the internet or anyplace else to back up my statement.
But hey, “Why let the facts get in the way of a good opinion?”
Of course, I may be a little prickly because in Southern Illinois it is already the silly season, er, political season, and the opinionated ads are flying back and forth across the TV.
14 September 2014 at 9:02 am
Pooh says:
I amend the quote to, “Why let the facts get in the way of a good ARGUMENT?”
It’s my opinion, and it’s very true.
15 September 2014 at 6:13 am
Sammy says:
Not going to argue with that!!!!!