Cacti and other succulents

Cacti and succulents have attracted the attention of botanists, explorers, nature lovers and collectors because of their distinctive peculiarities.

Succulent plants have evolved from others by adapting to changing climatic conditions especially in relation to the frequency and amount of rainfall. Those plants that were able to adapt to the changing conditions by increasing their succulence became the forerunners of the current extreme forms that are able to survive in extreme conditions where no other plant can thrive.

When these plants are kept on windowsills or greenhouses, it is a far cry from the harsh desert landscape that these plants have adapted to.

Interest in collecting cacti and succulents in Malta was started some 60 years ago by Prof. John Borg who had an outstanding collection at the Argotti Gardens in Floriana. Although his specimens were allowed to perish, his book Cacti is still quoted by eminent cactologists.

This hobby continued to gain momentum by the setting up of Ghaqda Maltija tal-Kaktus u Sukkulenti Ohra in 1951. The society organises meetings for its 150 members every month. The members get a monthly newsletter and an annual magazine and have free access to numerous books on the subject in the society's library. Moreover, every year, a speaker of international repute is invited to give two talks.

Another event organised annually is the Cactus and Succulent Show. This show is well patronised by the public. This year, this exhibition is being held at the Victoria Hall (L-Oratorju) in Naxxar on Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30, between 8.30 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. Entrance is free and there is spacious parking place in front of the hall.