Let’s take a look at the Saguaro cactus. These types of desert plants in general, the cacti, adapt in a number of general ways. Instead of the wide leaves their wet area brethren sport, cactus have thin needles to minimize water evaporation. They they have also developed very thick stems or trunks. It’s another method to slow down the evaporation. But the Saguaro has two additional features. Number one it gains protection from the sun by growing in the shade of another tree or shrub. You’d find shade under that hot sun too. It can reach 15 feet high, but the growth is very slow, maybe an inch each year. Reaching maturity under these conditions is an important part of survival.

There are common adaptations shared by many desert plants. Plants like the Saguero are called Xerophytes, they store water in particular with their needles instead of leaves. Phreatophytes use a different adaptation. Their roots are deep enough to reach all the way down to the water table. We have to mention two other things.

Some desert plants, called perennials, live for many years. When it’s hot and dry these plants are dormant. They spring into action when water is available. By continuing this cycle they maintain long, healthy lives.

Another category of desert plants are the annuals, which live for only a season. Annuals go for the quick hit. They only live when conditions are more reasonable, then they die.

The floor of the desert, in many areas, is thin with plant life. But with all of the specialized features and characteristics, the subject of desert plants is very thick.