As a horticulture and landscaping expert , I am thrilled to share my knowledge about cacti with you . The mankind of cacti is incredibly diverse , with nigh 2,000 species and 139 genus . These fascinating plants belong to the household Cactaceae , which is part of the order Caryophyllales . Let ’s cut into into the various types of cacti and research their unequalled characteristic .

1 . Opuntia : This genus is commonly known as prickly pears or paddle cacti . They are recognized by their flat , oval - shaped pad that are covered in spine . Prickly pear bring forth vivacious blossom and edible fruit .

2 . Mammillaria : These cacti feature small cylindric consistency covered in clusters of tubercles , which are rounded projection . They often have beautiful flowers that bloom from the top of the plant .

3 . barrel cactus : bang as barrel cacti , they have a distinct barrelful - like form with outstanding ribs . These cacti can grow quite large and bring about stunning flowers at their tops .

4 . Ferocactus : Barrel - shaped as well , they are characterized by their long , keen spine and telling size of it . Ferocactus cacti often have a thick , woody stem and eye - catching flowers .

5 . Gymnocalycium : These cacti are minor and ball-shaped in shape , with comparatively few spines . They are have it away for their striking blossom , which can appear in various colors .

6 . Astrophytum : Star cacti , as they are commonly called , have a unique whiz - shaped coming into court . They possess few to no rachis and produce great , glossy flowers .

7 . Echinopsis : Formerly known as Trichocereus , these cacti have elongated bodies with numerous rib . They are notable for their large , horn - shaped heyday that bloom at Nox .

8 . orchid cactus : Also screw as orchidaceous plant cacti , these plants are epiphytic , mean they grow on other plants rather than in the ground . They have long , mat staunch with beautiful , fragrant flowers .

9 . Rhipsalis : These cacti are aboriginal to the rainforests and have thin , train stems . Rhipsalis cacti are often grown as hanging plants due to their refined appearance .

10 . Schlumbergera : These cacti are commonly called Christmas cacti or Thanksgiving cacti , as they often bloom during the vacation time of year . They have segment stems and produce colourful flowers .

This tilt only grave the surface of the immense array of cacti species . Each type possesses its own unique machine characteristic , growth habits , and blossom convention . Exploring the world of cacti can be a thrilling adventure , as you discover the various shapes , sizes , and coloration these plant provide .

I have in person bump many of these cactus type in my horticulture journey . One of my favorite is the Opuntia , with its vivacious chicken flowers and delicious fruits . Another standout is the Echinocactus , which can grow to impressive sizes and produce stunning pinkish or yellow flowers . see these cacti thrive and blossom in my garden lend me vast joyousness and satisfaction .

The world of cacti is unbelievably diverse , with nearly 2,000 species and 139 genera . From the monotone pad of the prickly pear to the drum - form Ferocactus , each type of cactus offers its own singular beauty . explore the different cactus species can be a rewarding and exciting journey for any gardening partisan .

Caroline Bates