Discover the differencesand family resemblanceswhen comparing succulents vs. cacti.
But these two plant types have much more in common than their drought tolerance and heat-loving nature.
Is a Cactus a Succulent?
Credit:(L) Meredith Corporation, (R) Jacob Fox
Succulents are not their own distinct family, but can be found in around 60 families of plants.
Cacti, in theCactaceaefamily, make up one of these families.
Soall cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti.
Credit: Craig Anderson
Cacti are simply a subcategory within a group of plants, which are known collectively as succulents.
All succulents are defined as water-storing plants.
The unique shapes and colors that have come to define succulents havemade them a popular houseplantin recent years.
There are also a number of internal chemical processes that can help the plant retain water.
A defining feature of cacti is yet another way succulents can hold their moisture.
(These spines are also a helpful tool to protect against predators.)
The areoles developed as a kind of branch from the main plant.
Some succulents are mistaken for cacti just because they have small spines.
Plants can have these features without being cacti because they do not have areoles.
This is why it’s not technically correct to say that cacti have thorns.
Succulents, on the other hand, are native to every continent on Earth except for Antarctica.
Succulent Care Tips
Succulents (including cacti) make excellent houseplants.
In fact, over-watering is a main cause of succulent death.
Generally, they just like to be left alone, as long as they have adequate sunlight.
If the leaves begin to feel soggy or mushy, your plant is likely being overwatered.
Most succulents and cacti lovebright light, but not necessarily direct sunlight.
A well-draining potting mix and container are also essential to the survival of any cactus or succulent.
Propagating Succulents and Cactus
Succulents, like other plants, can multiply via seeds.
However, they have had to adapt as wind frequently carries the tiny seeds away from suitable growing areas.
Propagation generally refers to a method of multiplying from a piece of the parent plant.
This can also happen with individual leaves, which can sprout roots without first being replanted in soil.
