Desert plants have no leaves because their leaves have been converted into spines; photosynthetic processes in those plants occur in [[1]].

The plants that are found in deserts have spines that are modified leaves. It is done to reduce the loss of water since water availability is not much. Therefore to minimize transpiration these plants do not have leaves. The stems of some of these plants are fleshy to store water to ensure its availability during summer. These plants are known as succulents.

The stems of these plants are green due to the presence of chlorophyll. Therefore the stem of these plants perform photosynthesis.

In desert environments, where water is scarce, plants have evolved several remarkable adaptations to survive. One key adaptation is the modification of leaves into spines. This transformation helps reduce the surface area available for water loss through transpiration, a process by which water evaporates from plant surfaces. By reducing transpiration, these plants conserve precious water, which is crucial for their survival in the harsh desert conditions.

Since these plants no longer have traditional leaves, their stems take on a critical role in the plant's life cycle. Many desert plants, particularly succulents, have thick, fleshy stems that act as water storage organs. These stems store water during times of rainfall or dew collection, allowing the plant to access this stored moisture when conditions are dry, especially during the scorching summer months.

Another fascinating aspect of succulents is their ability to perform photosynthesis in their stems. The stems are typically green due to the presence of chlorophyll, the same pigment that is found in leaves and enables the process of photosynthesis. In succulents, this means that the stem can carry out the same function as leaves, converting sunlight into energy to fuel the plant's growth and survival, even in the absence of traditional leaves. This adaptation ensures that the plant can continue to thrive in extremely arid conditions, utilizing every bit of water and sunlight efficiently.