Cactus (noun) is defined as “a succulent plant with a thick, fleshy stem that typically bears spines, lacks leaves, and has brilliantly colored flowers” (this sounds strangely similar to some Hollywood characters I have met, but I digress).  This definition only scratches the surface of these fascinating plants and lacks the depth of beauty and variety these beautiful, unusual, and quirky plants offer. To experience that, head over to Moorten’s Botanical Garden founded in 1938 in Palm Springs, California.

Step onto the nature trail and take-in a journey of discovery. As you wander through the splintering trails that pass a wide variety of cacti and desert trees, you learn how resilient and vital cacti are to the health of a living desert. Continue on the path and experience the world’s first “Cactarium,” a word the Moorten’s first coined. This is a privately owned botanical garden and the physical space of it is not huge. That makes it ideal for quick run-throughs or more leisurely strolls depending on your time constraints.

There is a nominal fee for touring this hide-away, but it is worth it. On your way out, there is a nice selection of cacti and succulents for purchase. They make for great gifts!

More information is available on their website: www.moortengarden.com, or visit them at 1701 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA  92264.