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Most Cacti have spines, but some have smooth stems.Here you will find cacti plants with fascinating shapes and interesting features - the results of their successful
adaptation to the difficult conditions in the desert or tropical regions. Even the prickliest and smallest may produce vibrant blooms. 
Cacti belong to the family Cactaceae and have certain features not possessed by members of other plant families.
The chief characteristic is the areole, which is a growth rather like a minute pin cushion from which wool, spines, flowers and new shoots develop. Contrary to popular belief these plants flower regularly. Every cactus with the exception of the genus Pereskia are succulents which means that they are able to store water in their tissues to sustain them through periods of drought, and since cactus have no permanent leaves the storage tissues are in the stem of the plant. Most have spines which may be stout and sharp in some species, bristle or hair-like in others. In general these are known as desert plants, but deserts vary. where little or no rain falls then no cacti are found. Most being found where there is heavy, but infrequent rainfall. 
Christmas Cactus Schlumbergera is one of the most popular of these plants, flowering between November and January, this tropical jungle plant will brighten the winter’s darkest days with its cascade of colourful flowers carried at the tips of its claw-like stems.
General Care Many cacti and other succulents are easy plants to cultivate in a good, well drained soil, such as John Innes potting compost No2 or a peat-based compost with additional liquid feeds during the growing period. They require warmth during the winter and plenty of sun. They will survive short periods of neglect, but appreciate plenty of water during the period of growth.
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