Top 100

Bunny ears cactus

Opuntia microdasys

#84 of the top 100

Bunny ears cactus
Photo by Stan Shebs · CC BY-SA 3.0

How to care

Opuntia microdasys, commonly known as the Bunny Ear Cactus, is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance needs. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. This cactus is drought-tolerant, making it ideal for those who may forget to water regularly. It does not require frequent fertilization and is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Light Preference

  • Full Sun
  • Part Shade

Size

Height
0.5 m – 1 m
Spread
0 m – 0.1 m
Years
10 – 20

Preferred soil

  • Loam
  • Sand
  • Acidic
  • Alkaline
  • Neutral

Propagation

  • Cutting
  • Layering

Life Cycle

Perennial

Lives for more than two years.

Flowers

  • Showy
  • Yellow

Toxic to

  • Whole plantDogsMild · Eye contact
  • Whole plantDogsMild · Skin contact
  • Whole plantHumansMild · Eye contact
  • Whole plantHumansMild · Skin contact

Informational only — not veterinary or medical advice. Missing data does not mean a plant is safe.

Edible parts

The fruit of the bunny ears cactus, also known as Opuntia microdasys, is edible. It can be consumed raw or cooked and is often used in salads, jams, or desserts.

Informational only — not a guarantee that a part is safe to eat. Missing data does not mean a plant is inedible.

Other names

  • Angel's-wings
  • Bunny cactus
  • Bunny ears cactus
  • Polka-dot cactus

Taxonomy

Order
Caryophyllales
Family
Cactaceae
Genus
Opuntia

Wikipedia

Wikipedia

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