Bunny ears cactus (Opuntia microdasys)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bunny ears cactus on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cactaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 21 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–40 °C
About Bunny ears cactus
Opuntia microdasys, commonly known as 'Bunny Ears' or 'Angel's Wings', is a charming, spineless cactus (though it does have glochids) that forms dense clumps of oval pads. Its areoles are covered with tiny, soft white or yellow glochids, giving it a velvety appearance. It's ideal for rock gardens, desert landscapes, or as an indoor potted plant, adding an exotic and low-maintenance touch.
Native range
North and central Mexico
Care tips
It requires direct and intense sunlight for compact and healthy growth; lack of light can cause the plant to stretch. Watering should be moderate in spring and summer, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and almost none in winter. Use a very well-draining substrate, specific for cacti, to prevent root rot. A common mistake is underestimating the glochids; although they appear soft, they can easily get stuck in the skin, so handle with gloves.
How to save a dying Bunny ears cactus
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or black segments at base, dark spots, cladode drop.
- First aid
- Remove plant from pot. Inspect roots. Cut damaged parts with sterile knife. Let it callus for 2-3 days.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter or low light. Pots without proper drainage.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't reached the main stem. Propagate healthy segments.