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How do desert plants survive? Desert plants live in hot, dry places and have to avoid losing too much water. Cacti, which are found mainly in Central America, do not have leaves. The plants' green stems have tough skins that help retain water. The strange welwitschia plant from southern Africa has a different way of avoiding water loss. It closes the pores on its leaves during the day and only opens them at night. All desert plants have evolved ways to reduce water loss through their leaves and stems.   Previous: Back Book: 1001 Section: Nature Chapter: Unusual Plants