Succulents and cacti are xerophytes – plants that have adaptations to survive in dry environments. Although most succulents are native to hot, dry regions, some (like Sempervivum) live in places that are cold and snowy!

Here are a few quick facts to get you started:

The term “succulent” isn’t a scientific denotation or even a true family! “Succulent” is a catch-all term that describes any plant that has adaptations to store water in its stem, leaves or trunk. Succulents aren’t necessarily related to one another!

All cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti. “Succulents” is a general term and it usually is meant to include cacti.

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