cactus
Japanese Name:
サボテン
Romaji Name:
saboten
Description
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A cactus is a type of plant that usually grows in dry, desert areas. It has thick, fleshy stems that store water and often has sharp spines instead of leaves to protect itself and reduce water loss.
History
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Cacti are native to the Americas, primarily found in deserts and arid regions of North and South America. Fossil records show that cacti have existed for at least 30–40 million years.
Indigenous peoples of the Americas have long used cacti for food, medicine, and materials. For example, the prickly pear cactus has edible fruits and pads, while the saguaro cactus is an iconic symbol of the American Southwest.
European explorers first encountered cacti in the 15th and 16th centuries during their exploration of the New World. Since then, cacti have been introduced to gardens and greenhouses worldwide due to their unique appearance and drought tolerance.
Today, cacti are popular ornamental plants and are studied for their adaptations to harsh environments. They also hold cultural significance in art, folklore, and cuisine.