The Difference Between Cacti and Succulents: What You Need to Know

The difference between cacti and succulents is a hotly debated topic among plant lovers, and for good reason. While they’re often confused due to their similar appearance and shared arid origins, there are key differences in their care, growth habits, and origins. If you want to know how to best care for these plants and what makes them unique, read on.

What makes a cactus a cactus?

Cacti belong to the family Cactaceae and are mainly found in dry, desert-like regions of North and South America. What makes cacti unique compared to other succulents is the presence of so-called areoles. These are small, round structures on the surface of the cactus, from which spines, flowers and even new branches can grow. The spines serve as protection against thirsty animals and help to reduce water loss by the plant in the bright sun.
Additionally, many cacti can flower impressively, often with large, brightly colored flowers that, while short-lived, are spectacular. Despite their spiky appearance, cacti are fascinating plants with unique characteristics that make them ideal for dry indoor environments.

Succulents: Masters of Water Storage

Succulents, on the other hand, are a broader group of plants that belong to different families, such as Crassulaceae, Aizoaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. What unites succulents is their ability to store water in their thick, fleshy leaves, stems, or roots. This makes them excellent for dry conditions, similar to cacti.
Where succulents differ from cacti, however, is in their appearance. Instead of spines, they usually have smooth, rounded or pointed leaves, which can come in a variety of shapes and colors. Popular succulents such as Echeveria, Aloe Vera, and Sedum are known for their graceful shapes and attractive patterns. This makes succulents a favorite with both novice and experienced plant caretakers.

How do you care for them?

Although cacti and succulents are both drought-loving plants, they differ slightly in their care. Here are a few important care tips:

Light:

• Cacti thrive in direct sunlight. Place them on a windowsill where they can get a good dose of sunlight every day. Cacti can tolerate hours of full sun, thanks to their desert origins.
• Succulents are a bit more flexible when it comes to light. They can survive in both direct and indirect light, as long as they get enough light to keep their leaves healthy and sturdy. So keep them in a well-lit room, but avoid prolonged exposure to bright midday sun, especially for species with delicate leaves.

Water:

• Cacti, as you might expect, need less frequent watering. Give them a good amount of water when the soil is completely dry, but avoid leaving them in soil that is too wet, as this can cause root rot.
• Succulents can also go a long time without water, but they like to get a good splash of water every now and then. Make sure the water can drain well, because they are sensitive to too wet conditions.

Ground:

• For both cacti and succulents, use a well-draining potting soil, specially formulated for succulents or cacti. This helps to drain excess water quickly and prevents root rot.

Which one suits you?

Whether you choose a cactus or a succulent, it depends on your preferences and the place where you want to place the plant. Cacti are perfect for sunny spaces and bring a tough, robust character to your interior. Succulents, on the other hand, offer more variation in color and shape and also fit well in spaces with indirect light, such as an office or bathroom.

Product tip: cacti and succulents at The Green Bottle Garden