Opuntia microdasys (Bunny Ears)

A most attractive cactus, Opuntia microdasys (Bunny Ears) is a bushy, perennial cactus with oval to round, flattened, small pads, up to 6 in. across (15 cm). Red when new, the pads appear in pairs, like the ears of a rabbit, and mature to a soft, velvety green as they grow. They are spineless but densely spotted with neatly spaced, white areoles, each bearing white, yellow, or reddish-brown bristle-like spines. Sitting on the outer edges of the pads, large, pure yellow, or tinged with red, bowl-shaped flowers, up to 2 in. wide (5 cm), are produced in spring or early summer. Not often seen on plants grown in pots, the blossoms appear in abundance on plants grown in open ground. The flowers will turn into 2 in. long fruits (5 cm), varying from purple to red. Opuntia microdasys is a very decorative cactus that adds beauty to the garden year-round.

• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Typically grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 4-5 ft. wide (120-150 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or light shade in well-drained soils. Once established, needs only occasional watering. Allow the compost to dry before watering during the growth period. Withhold water in winter when dormant. Drought tolerant once established.
• This low-maintenance plant is a great choice for xeriscape gardens, rock gardens, Mediterranean gardens, and desert gardens. Lovely in containers too.
• This remarkable plant is deer resistant and is easy to care for.
• Generally disease-free. Watch for scale insects or mealy bugs.
• Propagate from woody stem cuttings or from seed.
• Native to central and northern Mexico.