How to grow bunny ears cactus
Overview
Bunny ears cactus (Opuntia microdasys) is a compact, pad-forming cactus grown for its ornamental appearance, with pale green pads covered in dense, white glochids (tiny barbed hairs). It is a popular choice for pots, rockeries, and dry gardens in Australia, valued for its low water needs and striking form. Growers must handle it with care—glochids are easily dislodged and can cause skin irritation.
Varieties
- Opuntia microdasys 'Albata' — White-furred pads with no yellow glochids, popular for a cleaner look in pots.
- Opuntia microdasys 'Rufida' — Reddish-brown glochids on pads, more striking but equally barbed.
Soil Preparation
Use a very free-draining, gritty mix with a pH of 6.0–7.0—combine 2 parts coarse sand, 1 part pumice or perlite, and 1 part low-organic potting soil. Avoid heavy clay or moisture-retentive soils; if planting in ground, amend with 30% gravel or crushed rock to improve drainage.
Growing Guide
Plant bunny ears cactus in a position that receives full, direct sun for at least 6 hours daily, ideally in a north- or west-facing spot. Use a free-draining, gritty cactus mix (e.g., 50% coarse sand, 25% pumice, 25% potting soil) and space pads 20–30 cm apart to allow air flow. Water only when the soil is completely dry—every 2–3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter—and avoid any overhead watering to prevent rot. In temperate zones, protect from heavy frost by moving pots under cover or using a cloche; in mediterranean and subtropical areas, it can remain outdoors year-round.
Care
Feed with a low-nitrogen, balanced cactus fertiliser (e.g., 2-7-7) once in early spring and once in early summer, diluted to half strength. No pruning is needed—remove damaged or dead pads with tongs to avoid glochid injury. Repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh gritty mix, handling pads carefully with folded newspaper.
Companion Planting
Pair with other low-water, full-sun cacti and succulents like Echeveria, Sedum, and Agave in a dry garden or pot collection. Avoid planting near moisture-loving plants (e.g., ferns, impatiens) that require frequent watering, as this can lead to overwatering and rot in the cactus.
Common Pests & Risks
Cochineal scale appears as white, cottony masses on pads; treat by dabbing with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or using a systemic insecticide for cacti. Root rot occurs from overwatering or poor drainage—prevent by using a gritty mix and watering only when dry. Mealybugs can also infest pads; remove with a strong water spray or neem oil.
Troubleshooting
Pads turning yellow and soft: overwatering or poor drainage—reduce watering and check soil. White spots on pads: cochineal scale—treat with alcohol. Pads shrivelling: underwatering or extreme heat—water deeply when soil is dry. Brown patches: sunburn in intense afternoon sun—provide light shade in hottest weeks. Pads falling over: pot too small or top-heavy—repot into a wider, heavier container.