Concept in Definition ABC

In the plant world the family of cacti is known as Cactaceae and is made up of more than 2,500 different species. These plants live in normally arid places and can withstand prolonged periods of drought.

The stem of cacti is divided into two parts: a greenish outer ring called the cortex and a white inner ring called xylem. In both structures the cactus concentrates starch, water and nutrients to stay alive.

Why do they have thorns?

Like any living being, plants have to adapt to the natural environment to guarantee their survival. Cacti live in hot and dry areas and have a hard structure to prevent the water inside them from escaping. They have their characteristic thorns to prevent the loss of water vapor and, on the other hand, to protect themselves from thirsty animals that seek water.

Tips for your care

Its resistance to heat is due to the ability to store water in its leaves and stems. Cactaceae have bright colors and for this reason they are ideal for decorating gardens and terraces.

Regarding its flowering, it must be taken into account that not all varieties bloom the same, since some only open their petals at certain times of the day. It is advisable to periodically use a fertilizer with a high potassium content. Flowering is very slow and can sometimes take several years for the first to appear. flower.

During the winter period it is advisable to move the plant away from the cold and place it in an area where it receives sunlight. During this stage the cacti rest and for this reason irrigation should be limited, for example twice a month.

On spring and summer the plant must remain humid, but always avoiding the excess of water. On fall It hardly needs care, as it has already stored enough water during the previous months.

Its symbolic and cultural dimension

In oriental culture it represents success, especially in the workplace. It also represents ideas of inner strength and is believed by some people to bring good luck and attract love.

In the world of tattoos, cacti symbolize the ideas of protection and resistance. Those who get tattooed with them usually communicate the ability to adapt to any medium hostile.

This plant is ideal to give to those who do not have much time to care for it. Cacti absorb the magnetic fields emitted by household appliances and transform the Energy negative of the appliances into positive energy.

Photos: Fotolia - Vangelis Vassalakis / Ponasthai