If you live in the desert, and you’re either into desert landscaping or preparing to improve the look of your property with some desert landscaping, then you have obviously thought about what type of cacti to use. Surprisingly, despite the fact that cactus thrives in the United States (especially in the desert areas of the Southwest), most people have no clue as to the identification process. And cacti are not that difficult to identify.

Step #1 – Cactus plants are referred to as “succulents” – This is the most important step of the four. These plants are normally woody on the outside with a fleshier interior. Most of the plants have ribbed sides which are like a built-in shade system for the plants.

Step #2 – The root system is normally shallow, relatively short, and spread out. Since cacti were inherently designed to survive in a desert client, they have the capability of drawing up large amounts of water (and storing it) in a very short period of time. The “feeder” roots usually go no deeper than ½ inch to an inch below the surface.

Step #3 – When all else fails, have a look at the stem of the plant. Despite the fact that cacti come in a variety of shapes and sizes, certain cacti attributes are seen in a wide variety of these plants throughout the spectrum. As an example, cacti have a “waxy” skin which makes them relatively water proof.

Step #4 – Notice the distinguishing factors between trees and cacti. Normal foliage (plants, shrubs, and trees) generally bears foliage of some sort. Succulents are usually covered with very sharp pointed spines. However, sometimes these spines can be very long and even soft. Those varieties that bloom normally are characterized by two opposing buds. The flower normally grows at the top; the spines normally grow from the bottom up.