Cacti are plants native to the desert. They are able to survive for long periods without fresh water, since it doesn’t rain often in the areas in which they grow. They are often dangerous plants, with spiny needles or sharp edges that can puncture or cut a human or animal who approaches one foolishly. They also can provide hydration when one gets lost in the desert because most cacti store water within themselves and can be cut open to procure their water source. It’s important to find out which cacti may be poisonous if you intend to spend a good deal of time in the desert. Some “poisons” from a cactus such as Peyote may be used as a spiritual or recreational drug, but it’s important to practice safety when attempting to use these hallucinogens. Also, knowing the difference between a cactus that will make you trip and one that will kill you is crucial.
These amazing plants are often beautiful and interesting to look at, especially if you are not from an area where cactus species grow native. Even those who are native to places like New Mexico and Arizona, where cactus plants grow naturally, have a tendency to love these plants and feel a sense of identity through them. There are some very neat cactus tattoos out there, and here are a few of the most eye-catching varieties I’ve found.
Melanie Milne (http://websta.me/n/melaniemilnetattoos) created this cartoonish and adorable cactus tattoo. The different cactus types in one pot is a great idea, and the pot itself is a great design featuring native southwest style artwork. The big round yellow background evokes an image of the sun and lends to the desert feel of the cacti featured in this tattoo.
Whimsical and brightly colored, this desert scene features a design of a saguaro cactus, native to Arizona. Done by Tony (http://tonygoeke.deviantart.com/).
Although this flowering cactus tattoo is black and grey, it is not lacking in appeal or creativity. This cute tattoo was done by Hannah Louise Clark (http://hannahlouiseclark.tumblr.com/)
This great tattoo features a cactus growing from a skull, giving the feeling of how deadly and dangerous the desert can truly be. Done on model Reaper (http://www.modelmayhem.com/3403974); photo fromhttps://www.flickr.com/photos/thisisbossi/16654927929/.
A mix of traditional and new school, this stylized cactus tattoo has a dreamy feel to it. By Joy (http://joytoy.deviantart.com/).
This tattoo features a beautifully detailed flowering cactus and roses– a truly great design by Alice Carrier (https://www.flickr.com/photos/land_camera/). While I believe this outline is meant to be filled in, I think it’s gorgeous and wonderful as-is.
An adorable, loving, bearded cactus, this tattoo is adorable and unique. Done by Tom Ruki (https://www.flickr.com/photos/60922265@N07/)