Where would waxes be found on a desert plant?

Desert plants often have a waxy coating on their leaves and stems to help reduce water loss through transpiration. Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor from their leaves as part of the process of photosynthesis. Waxes form a hydrophobic (water-repelling) layer over the plant’s surfaces, creating a physical barrier that prevents excess water from evaporating and being lost to the dry desert air. Some plants such as cacti store and conduct water internally to carry out various biological processes. Waxes serve a vital role in regulating and reducing water loss from these vulnerable water storage plant parts thus enhancing the plant’s chances of survival in harsh, arid conditions.