Desert plants have evolved a variety of adaptations to conserve water and thrive in arid environments. Some of these adaptations include ¹ ² ³ ⁴:
- Small leaves or no leaves at all to reduce water loss through transpiration
- Deep roots to reach groundwater or a wide, shallow root system to gather rainwater
- Thick, waxy stems that can store water
- Spines or thorns that provide shade and protect the plant from animals
- CAM photosynthesis that allows the plant to open its stomata at night and store water
- Light-colored leaves that reflect sunlight and reduce heat
- Hairy leaves that reflect sunlight and block wind
- Leaves with a thick, waxy coating that prevents water loss
- Leaves that can move to reduce heat and transpiration.
