45 Across

NYT Daily • August 4, 2025

Desert plants

Answer:

CACTI

Hint:

["\"Spiky residents of arid landscapes.\""]

Explanation:

**Explanation:** The clue "Desert plants" directly refers to a type of vegetation commonly found in arid environments. The answer "CACTI" fits because cacti are well-known desert plants, often associated with dry, sandy landscapes. The plural form "cacti" (from the Latin *cactus*) is used here, as the clue is general rather than singular. There is no wordplay or pun involved—this is a straightforward definition-based clue where the answer is a literal example of the category described. The connection is clear and relies on general knowledge of desert flora.

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