cactus

Everyday

A cactus is a plant that grows in hot, dry places such as deserts, with a thick stem that stores water and usually sharp spines instead of leaves. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons cacti show adaptation: thick stems store water, spines protect them and lose less water than leaves, and long roots soak up rare rain. Phrases: «a prickly cactus», «cactus spines», «cactus flower».

Examples

• A cactus can live in the desert for a long time without rain. tree →
• Don't touch the cactus; it's prickly! tree →
• My grandma has a cactus on her windowsill. tree →
• Some cacti have beautiful flowers. tree →
• The cactus stores water in its thick stem. tree →
• Camels can eat some cactus plants. tree →
• The tall saguaro cactus grows in Arizona. tree →

Note

Plural: cacti (KAK-tie) or cactuses; both are correct. Myth: drinking water from a cactus is a good idea in the desert — most cactus juice makes you sick. Spines are sharp; handle with gloves.