Sonoran Desert plants have thick, waxy skins that help them retain moisture and survive extreme heat.

Plants in the Sonoran Desert, such as cacti and succulents, have adapted to the harsh environment by developing thick, waxy skins or cuticles that reduce water loss. This protective coating prevents moisture from evaporating in the intense desert heat, allowing plants like the Saguaro cactus to survive long periods of drought. Additionally, many desert plants have modified leaves (such as spines or reduced leaf surface areas) to further minimize water loss and to provide shade for the plant’s surface, ensuring their survival in the extreme conditions of the desert.