Are Snake Plants Cactus? Let’s Find Out
Last Updated on January 27, 2024
Snake plants and Cacti are two different species that share more or less the same properties. But in reality, they are different plants. Both Cacti and Snake plants are succulents, but snake plants are not cacti.
Things that are unique in cactus and snake plants
Areoles
In cactus or cacti, there are areoles instead of leaves. They are of different shapes with spines, flowers, and branches growing over them. Cacti prepare their food on their stems.
Whereas in snake plants leaves grow from their stems. They are large and are responsible for making food for the plant.
Spines instead of leaves
In cacti, spines act as water storage reservoirs for the plant. They shrink in size to retain water loss. and also provide defence against animals that feed on plants.
In snake plants, water is stored in their leaves. They absorb it for contingency situations and release it later on.
Stems
Stems of cactus are often thick, green and greasy. They aid in water storage for the plant. Unlike other plants, the process of photosynthesis takes place in their stems.
In snake plants, there are no visible stems from where leaves are attached. Instead, they are root-bound plants. They have underground rhizomes from where their new leaves develop.
Stomata
In cacti or cactus plants sunken stomata are located on their stems, as their stems contribute to photosynthesis. Unlike other plants that exhale Carbon dioxide at night, cacti act differently and take it in.
On the other hand in snake plants, stomata are located on their leaves.
On the other hand in snake plants, stomata are located on their leaves. They work on Crassulacean Acid Metabolism. They close their stomata in the daytime to resist heat and preserve water. But opens them up at night exhales oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide.
Withstand high temperature
Cacti are mostly found in dry places in deserts. They can tolerate temperatures as high as 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Snake plants need indirect sunlight and love to live in warm places. It can thrive in temperatures ranging between 70 -90 Fahrenheit.
Light
Cactus need an ample amount of direct sunlight to grow. If you place the plant in a south-facing window, then six hours of minimum sunlight is required by the plant.
Unlike snake plants that can burn when placed under direct sunlight. A mild level of light is sufficient for its growth.
Common Features of Snake Plant & Cactus
Both snake plants and cactus are evergreen. They are highly adaptive when it comes to maintenance. They can tolerate water scarcity for days. What makes them similar is their water-storing capacity.
Both are easy to maintain and need less care and attention. It is recommended to water them less often, preferably once a week or when you feel the soil has lost its moisture.
Conclusion
Cactus plants and snake plants are often considered the same. But actually, they are not. After comparing their features we can say both are succulents, belonging to different species. They are easy to handle and need less attention.
Cactus can tolerate harsh and dry temperatures, yet snake plants are sensitive to heat and temperature and bloom well in warm climates.
The feature that makes them alike is that their leaves and stems act as water reservoirs. And provide them with water in drought conditions.