In an increasingly hot world with long summers, many people are looking for plant alternatives that can withstand heat, drought and require little maintenance.


Cactus.

Cacti, belonging to the Cactaceae family, are succulent plants native to arid and semi-arid regions, adapted to survive in water-scarce environments. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from small spherical specimens to large branched columns. They are characterized by thick stems that store water and often by thorns that replace the leaves, reducing water loss through evaporation. These adaptations make cacti classic symbols of the desert and popular options for interior decoration, especially in hot climates.

In addition to their unique aesthetics, cacti don't require much care.

They are low-maintenance plants, requiring sporadic watering only when the soil is completely dry, which makes them ideal for people with busy routines or who forget to water their plants regularly. They adapt well to well-lit interiors, preferring places that receive intense direct or indirect sunlight. In decorative terms, cacti complement minimalist and boho styles, adding a natural and exotic touch without overwhelming the space.


Succulents.

Succulents are plants that stand out for their ability to store water in their leaves, stems or roots, allowing them to survive in arid environments where water is scarce. They come in a wide variety of shapes and colors, with fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette shape and shades ranging from green to violet being common. Species such as Echeveria are appreciated for their beauty and resistance.

These plants are ideal for domestic environments and warm climates due to their resistance and low care requirements. To care for succulents, you need well-drained soil to avoid water accumulation, which can lead to root rot.

Watering should only be done when the soil is completely dry. In addition, succulents adapt well to small vases, making them perfect for centerpieces or for adding a green touch to small spaces.


Elephant's foot.

Elephant's foot (Beaucarnea recurvata), also known as nolina, is a succulent plant native to Mexico, notable for its thick, bulb-shaped trunk at the base, which stores water, and its long, arching leaves that resemble a wig. This structure makes the plant extremely drought-resistant, making it ideal for hot, dry climates.

Slow-growing, it can reach up to 5 meters in height when grown outdoors, but it adapts perfectly to indoor environments, as long as it is placed in well-lit areas.

During the summer, it appreciates full sun, but can tolerate half shade, although its growth is slower in these conditions. In winter, it is important to protect it from temperatures below 10 °C. Due to its sculptural aesthetics and ease of care, it is an excellent choice for interior decoration, especially in minimalist or boho styles.


Yucca.

Yucca, also known as yucca, is an ornamental plant of American origin, appreciated for its long, narrow and pointed leaves, which grow in rosettes at the top of the stems, giving it a sculptural and exotic appearance. With a sturdy, woody trunk, this plant can reach between 1.5 and 3 meters in height indoors, adapting well to large spaces such as halls or terraces.

Yucca is also known for its resistance and ease of care, making it an excellent choice for those who want to add a tropical touch to interior or garden decoration.

This plant prefers well-lit environments, thriving in direct sunlight, but it also adapts to shady areas. It is resistant to temperature variations, tolerating both summer heat and winter cold, as long as there are no intense frosts. Watering should only be done when the soil is completely dry, avoiding waterlogging which can lead to root rot.


Agave.

Recognizable by its thick, pointed and rosette-shaped leaves, agave is similar to aloe, but more robust and rustic in size, and comes in a variety of shades, from bluish-green to silver-grey, depending on the species.

Originally from arid regions such as Mexico, this plant stands out for its ability to store water in its leaves, allowing it to survive in dry, hot environments. Its main advantage is its resistance to drought and minimal need for care. It requires well-drained soil and should only be watered when the substrate is completely dry, avoiding excess water which can lead to root rot. It prefers direct sunlight, but also adapts to places with partial shade.






Source: https://www.idealista.pt/

 
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