There are a few really bad guys out there! Maybe not lethally sharp, but they can cause deep and sometimes festering wounds: They are virtually ALL SPINES. read more
The fiercest-looking spines on any cactus I have encountered is on this particular plant. If a bird would want to get to the moisture inside the plant, it would most likely impale itself trying. The spines are some 2 inches (5cm) long, very sharp and also very stiff. Echinocactus parryi. read more
They also may protect the plants from animals, but there are many species of animals—e.g., rodents, rabbits, javelina, deer, bighorn sheep—that are not deterred. One genus of cactus, Pereskia, actually has true leaves. Photosynthesis in most cacti takes place in the stems. read more
How the cactus became the world’s most-wanted plant By Paula Cocozza You can buy fake ones from designer Abigail Ahern or real ones from Aldi, while cacti appear on everything from £3.50 socks to £30,000 Cartier bracelets. read more