About
Opuntia microdasys, bunny ears cactus, is a bushy cactus with flattened, segmented, oval to round, light to mid-green stems densely spotted with white areoles bearing minute white, yellow or reddish-brown bristle-like spines. Yellow, bowl-shaped flowers to 4�5 cm across are borne in summer. One of the most popular and distinctive of the prickly pears for a sunny greenhouse bench or frost-free border.
About the genus
Opuntia are creeping, bushy or tree-like cacti with flattened, pad-like stem segments bearing spines and barbed bristles, and funnel-shaped flowers followed by spiny, fleshy fruits. Grown in sunny, well-drained positions in frost-free gardens and heated greenhouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toC & N Mexico
ToxicitySkin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Skin/eye irritant. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in sharply-draining, peat-free, loam-based compost with added sharp sand, or a proprietary peat-free cactus compost. Provide full light at all times and allow compost to dry before watering during growth period in spring, summer and early autumn and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser three or four times. Withhold water and fertiliser in winter when dormant. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in spring. Sow after pre-soaking and keep at 21°C for germination. Root stem segments in summer. Handle segments with folded newspaper to avoid touching spines
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free although in poorly drained, or wet soil, can be susceptible to root rots