Spotting areoles up close

Areoles are small, cushiony pads arranged in lines or spirals along ribs or bumps (tubercles). Spines grow from them; flowers and new growth often emerge there too.

Examples

  • Mammillaria spinosissima: dense spines from areoles on round tubercles.
  • Opuntia microdasys: flat pads with clusters of tiny glochids anchored in areoles.
  • Schlumbergera truncata: flattened segments with areoles at the segment edges where buds appear.

Photo tips

Use side lighting to cast shadows on areoles; macro focus on the base of a spine or bud. Compare with reliable cactus galleries to confirm.