Bunny Ear Cactus
Common Name(s)
Bunny Ear Cactus, Polka Dot Cactus
Latin Name
Opuntia Microdasys
Care Level
Perfect For Beginners
Light
For good growth, bright indirect light is recommended.
Water
In the growing season, March to October, you should water every two weeks if in bright direct light or once a month if in bright indirect light. During the winter period, the cactus should not be watered at all, with watering to resume in the early spring
Humidity
Average home humidity is fine, as with any cactus avoid high humidity areas.
Temperature
This cactus enjoys temperatures of 18-25°C. As a cactus it can tolerate cooler temperatures as low as 10°C. Keep away from radiators or heat sources.
Fertiliser
You can use diluted cacti fertiliser once a month or during the summer months. Too much plant food causes excess salt build up in the soil that can result in damage to the plant so take care with this.
Toxicity
The glochids are moderately irritating to the skin
My Bunny Ear Cactus seems to be losing shape and going brown at the bottom?
Like most cacti, these plants only occasional watering. Too much water will cause the root system to rot away. Watering too much during the winter can cause rot. The plant is likely to die now (unless it suddenly begins to recover) and you take pad cuttings for propagation.
My Bunny Ear Cactus doesn't seem like it's growing, what am I doing wrong?
The cause could be due to lack of or too much watering during the growing season. Reduce or increase to the correct amounts and wait to see progress. Alternatively, it may be a lack of light that is allowing the plant to survive rather than thrive, move the plant to an area with better light.
