Cacti and desert shrubs are the most common vegetation in arid climates, as they are specially adapted to survive with very little water.

In arid climates, where rainfall is scarce, plants have evolved to withstand extreme dryness. Cacti and desert shrubs are well-suited to these conditions because they can store water in their stems, have deep root systems to reach underground moisture, and often have features like thick skins or spines to reduce water loss. These plants dominate desert landscapes, providing essential resources for wildlife. Examples include saguaro cacti, yucca plants, and various types of drought-tolerant shrubs, all thriving in regions like the Sonoran Desert.