Opuntia microdasys

Opuntia microdasys, more commonly known as the bunny ear cactus, is a perennial flowering succulent native to central and northern Mexico.  Broad, fleshy pads make up the bunny ear cactus's stems, which continuously grow out from the apex of one another in a bushy habit.  These succulent stems are thinner at the base and balloon out towards their rounded tops, with an overall aesthetic that resembles bunny ears.  Glittering golden hairs cover the plant's surface, carrying tiny barbs that cause them to pierce anything that brushes against them. They are then readily released from the plant and remain lodged in whatever has come into contact with them.  As a result, the needle-like hairs can cause severe discomfort if they come into contact with the skin.  When in bloom, papery, semi-translucent yellow flowers appear at the apex of the stems, providing a unique, golden splendor to their environment.  Bunny ear cacti are great at absorbing multiple harmful toxins from the air and are even able to convert them into oxygen.  Make sure to plant bunny ear cacti where they will be out of the reach of children and pets, as their barbed hairs can easily cause accidental injuries.  

Provide bunny ear cactus with a location that receives a copious amount of sunlight throughout the day, with indoor plants placed in the light of a very well lit window.  Sandy or gravelly, well-draining soils are ideal for growing bunny ear cactus, and a cactus or succulent potting mix should be perfect.  Alternatively, mixing equal parts of perlite, coarse sand, and potting soil will create a similar blend to the commercially available mixes and keep your cacti healthy.  Bunny ear cacti are highly sensitive to overwatering and develop root rot rapidly. Only water after the soil has been completely dry for a prolonged time.  As is the case with many other desert plants, bunny ear cacti can survive weeks, and sometimes months, without water.  Due to their lack of tolerance to high humidity and frost, it is important to keep these plants very warm and dry for their health.  Regular fertilizing is not necessary for bunny cacti, though they can be given an annual dose of cactus fertilizer in the early spring.  To propagate, remove an individual succulent leaf and allow it to dry for 24 hours before potting it in the recommended soil.  After giving it abundant sun exposure for several weeks, the new cactus should have spread its roots and is now ready to be watered.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water sparingly, allowing the mix to nearly dry out between watering.

Opuntia Microdasys

Opuntia microdasys

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