Cacti

Nature cleverly provides
Each creature with protection -
Teeth or claws or brains or strength;
It's fodder for reflection.

Plants have means as well to keep
Their enemies at bay.
The cactus, for example,snarls,
You'd better stay away!

No matter what the shape or size,
Each cactus, like a knight,
Has armor in the guise of spikes,
Prepared to jab and fight.

Some thornish spears don't look so sharp
But do not be deceived;
If man or beast should venture close,
He'd surely be aggrieved.

Sneaky succulents they are, though -
They possess the power
To lure an unsuspecting soul
By sprouting quite a flower.

Such gorgeous blossoms' vibrant hues
Attract and then bequeath
Some pain to victims who forgot
There's danger underneath.

We must admire cacti.
They defend and then survive;
In unforgiving places
They do more than live - they thrive.