Is a Cactus a Plant or a Flower?

Cacti Identification

• Cacti are flowering plants that produce seed-bearing blooms that help propagate the cacti's species. Cacti may grow short and squat or tall and skinny, with or without branches. Cacti produce modified leaves known as spines or scales that protect that plant from birds, insects and animals. These modified leaves, as opposed to regular leaves on other plants, do not allow water to evaporate. Blooms usually appear at the topmost points of each branch of the cactus where an areole, or cluster of spines, exists. After blooms pollinate and turn to seed, new stems will grow from the areole.

Bloom Appearance

• Different species of cacti produce blooms of varying colors. Blooms of the Soehrensia bruchii cacti extend above the cacti in bright shades of red and reddish orange. Flowers of the Carnegiea gigantean consist of yellow centers surrounded by white petals, while the Weingartia hedingiana produce numerous, tiny yellow flowers. Other cacti produce yellow, white, pink and orange blooms.

Growing Indoors

• To enjoy beautiful blooms on miniature cacti houseplants, re-create habitats that support healthy cacti growth. Create a well-draining cacti potting mix by combining equal parts of soil-less potting mix, sand and gravel. Place potted cacti in a sunny, southern- or western-facing windowsill to receive light throughout most of the day. Leave the cacti on the windowsill at night, when cold air from the window mocks the cool, night temperatures in desert regions. Water approximately once per month to keep soil moist and prevent the cacti from shriveling as it dries out. Cacti varieties that flower well indoors include species of Gymnocalycium, Lobivia, Mammillaria and Rebutia.

Outdoor Gardens

• Grow cacti in outdoor gardens in tropical, subtropical or temperate climates by imitating the desert climates in which these flowering plants grow naturally. Plant the cacti in well-draining soil that receives partial shade to prohibit the cacti from suffering sunburn that prevents or stops growth and flowering. Water outdoor cactus plants every two to three days for optimal growth and to encourage blooming.