Leaf cactus

Thorny leaf cactus is an unusual cactus because it retains its broad, green leaves and grows as a woody shrub or climber. 

It is native to the dry forests of eastern Brazil, where it often appears as a spiny thicket or a scrambling vine among other vegetation.

Its stems are heavily armed with long, stiff spines, which give the species its name.

Leaf cacti are considered a primitive type of cactus. The first cacti that evolved in arid regions with the ability to withstand drought and water scarcity probably resembled them. The more familiar leafless cacti all developed from a leaf‑cactus ancestor. Leaf cacti have retained early features such as bark and leaves.

Fact box:

• Greenhouse location: Dessert house
• Danish name: Tornet trækaktus
• Latin name: Pereskia horrida
• Family: Cactus family / Cactaceae
• Natural habitat: Peru

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