Opuntia microdasys 'Yellow' (Bunny Ears Cactus)

🌿 The Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia microdasys) is a charming succulent from the Cactaceae family, native to the arid regions of northern Mexico. This beginner-friendly cactus gets its adorable common name from its flat, oval pads that grow in pairs, resembling rabbit ears. What makes this variety special is its dense covering of golden-yellow glochids (tiny, hair-like spines) that give the pads a soft, fuzzy appearance from a distance—though don't be fooled, they're deceptively prickly! Fun fact: Unlike many cacti, the Bunny Ears Cactus rarely produces the large spines typical of its relatives, relying instead on thousands of these microscopic barbed bristles for protection.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This cactus has an upright, branching growth habit with thick, paddle-shaped pads that stack and spread as the plant matures. Each pad is a vibrant green colour covered in evenly spaced clusters of bright yellow glochids that create a dotted pattern across the surface. The pads have a smooth, slightly waxy texture beneath the glochids and feel firm to the touch. New growth emerges from the edges of existing pads, creating an attractive layered appearance over time.
FLOWER DETAILS
When mature and given proper care, the Bunny Ears Cactus produces stunning yellow to peachy-orange flowers in late spring or early summer. The blooms are cup-shaped with delicate, papery petals and a vibrant centre filled with stamens. While the flowers have no noticeable fragrance, their cheerful colour and size (about 5 centimetres across) create a lovely contrast against the green pads. Flowering typically happens once yearly and isn't guaranteed indoors, but you can encourage blooms by providing bright light, a cool winter rest period with reduced watering, and avoiding nitrogen-heavy fertilizers. The flowers last several days before giving way to small, edible fruits.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. South or west-facing windows work best. Can tolerate some partial shade but may become leggy.
💧 Water: Water deeply but infrequently—every 2-3 weeks in spring and summer when soil is completely dry. Reduce to once monthly or less in fall and winter. Water at the soil level, never from above. The soak-and-dry method works perfectly.
🌡️ Humidity: Thrives in low humidity, 10-30% is ideal. Average home conditions are perfect; avoid humid environments like bathrooms.
🪴 Soil: Fast-draining cactus or succulent mix. Add extra perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage. Soil should never stay wet.
🏺 Potting: Terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots with drainage holes. Choose a pot slightly larger than the root system. Repot every 2-3 years in spring, handling carefully to avoid glochids.
🌱 Growth rate: Slow to moderate growth. Expect one or two new pads every 6 months under good conditions. Can reach 30-60 centimetres tall in 3-5 years. Maximum size indoors is typically 60-90 centimetres.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer (half strength). Skip feeding entirely in fall and winter during dormancy.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. While not chemically toxic, the glochids can cause physical irritation and injury if pets chew or rub against the plant. The tiny barbed spines embed easily in skin and mucous membranes.
WHERE TO PUT IT
The Bunny Ears Cactus thrives on sunny windowsills, bright sunrooms, or covered patios where it receives plenty of direct light. It's perfect for living rooms, home offices, or bedrooms with south-facing windows. This cactus also does well in collections with other succulents and cacti. Avoid placing it in low-light corners, humid bathrooms, or high-traffic areas where people or pets might accidentally brush against the glochids. Keep it away from air conditioning vents or heating sources that create inconsistent temperatures.