Bunny Ear Cactus
The Bunny Ear Cactus, scientifically known as Opuntia microdasys, is a charming and distinctive prickly pear variety beloved for its whimsical appearance. Native to the deserts of northern Mexico, particularly in regions like San Luis PotosÃ, this delightful cactus thrives in hot, arid conditions and well-drained, often rocky or sandy soils. As a relatively long-lived perennial, it can form attractive clumps and expand slowly over many years, enduring harsh desert environments.
Its most endearing characteristic is its flattened, oval or circular cladodes (pads), which grow in pairs, giving the appearance of rabbit ears ‘“ hence its common name. These pads are typically bright green when young, maturing to a darker green, and are notable for being spineless in the traditional sense. Instead of large spines, they are densely covered with numerous, tiny, golden-brown or reddish-brown glochids (small, barbed bristles) arranged in neat polka-dot patterns. While soft and fuzzy in appearance, these glochids detach easily and can be irritating to the skin, so handling with care is advised. The Bunny Ear Cactus generally remains a compact size, usually growing to 2-3 feet tall and equally wide. In late spring to early summer, mature plants may produce pale yellow, waxy flowers that are followed by small, round, reddish-purple fruits. Its unique look, manageable size, and drought tolerance make the Bunny Ear Cactus a popular choice for indoor cultivation, rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a fun, low-maintenance addition to any succulent collection.