A xerophyte is a plant that has evolved special features that enable it to survive in dry habitats, like deserts. They have adapted special ways of collecting and storing moisture, like waxy leaves and deep roots, so that they can go long periods with very little water. They also have adaptations that help them keep cool in hot temperatures, like using extra spines to shade their leaves, light-colored leaves, and sparse leaves to decrease surface area that could be exposed to the sun.