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Desert Plants

Cactus is a plant that grows in very hot, dry places. In most species, leaves are absent, substantially
diminished, or have been transformed as spikes, reducing the amount of surface area from which
water may be lost.

Read the descriptions and write the names of the desert plants using the Help Box.

It gets its name from its large, bulbous form. With its bright yellow spikes,
1 this cactus forms a spectacular centrepiece in any desert environment.
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The common name for this cactus comes from its remarkable look. It
has white hair and a slow-paced growth. It is native to Central Mexico. 2
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Animals enjoy eating this cactus because like many desert plants, it retains

3 water in its spongy layers. The thorns protect these plants from a wide range
of predators. ____________________

The hook-shaped spikes of this cactus helps redirect heat and create shade to
the developing tip of the plant. ____________________ 4

This cactus grows alone and has white fuzzy hair-like spines and purplish

5 red flowers. It can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall and up to 20 inches
(50 m) wide. ____________________

Fact File Help Box

Believe it or not, the Bunny Ear cactus is actually a Prickly Pear Cactus, Old Lady Cactus,
type of prickly pear cactus. Upon first glance, it may Fish Hook Cactus, Old Man Cactus,
seem that this cactus does not contain any spines. Golden Barrel Cactus

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