cactus spine
Succulent's sharp defense
A cactus spine is one of the sharp, needle-like structures that grow from a cactus, modified from leaves to reduce water loss and deter animals from eating the plant.
Spines vary widely in size, color, and arrangement across cactus species.
Unlike thorns, which grow from stems, cactus spines emerge from specialized spots called areoles: I got a cactus spine stuck in my finger.
- thornPointed plant projection
- prickleTiny sharp point
- barbBackward-pointing spike
- sharpFine-edged, or astute
- sharp pointTapered piercing terminus
desert · succulent · desert plant · saguaro · arid · dry climate · poke · defense · areole · prickly pear · piercing · stick · jab · ouch · dry · sand · Mexico · bristle