What is the scientific name for a cactus? The cactus scientific name is Cactaceae (family).
People recognize cacti for their ability to survive in dry and desert regions. The most common types of cacti are the Saguaro cactus, San Pedro cactus, Christmas cactus, and Prickly Pear cactus. Each cactus type has its own scientific name, structure, flowers, and fruits. Knowledge of cactus scientific names, types, and various uses is helpful information for gardeners, researchers, and plant enthusiasts.
This article covers cactus scientific names, classifications, flowers, fruits, and their significance.
What is the Cactus Scientific Name?
The cactus’s scientific name depends on the species. A cactus belongs to the family Cactaceae under the Plantae kingdom.
- Genus: Varies (Carnegiea, Echinopsis, Schlumbergera, Opuntia, etc.)
- Species: Varies depending on type
The word cactus comes from the Greek word kaktos. Botanists prefer to name all cacti with a two-part scientific name based on genus and species. The scientific name for the Saguaro cactus is Carnegiea gigantea.
Biological Classification of Cactus
| Rank | Classification Details |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae (Plants) |
| Subkingdom | Tracheobionta (Vascular plants) |
| Superdivision | Spermatophyta (Seed plants) |
| Division | Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants) |
| Class | Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons) |
| Subclass | Caryophyllidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae (Cactus family) |
| Genera | ~127 genera (Carnegiea, Opuntia, Echinopsis, Mammillaria, Schlumbergera, etc.) |
| Species | ~1,750 species |
