Opuntia microdasy Bunny ear cactus

☀️ Light

• Needs lots of bright, direct sunlight — at least 6 hours per day.

• A south-facing windowsill or greenhouse is ideal.

• If growing indoors, rotate it regularly so all sides get light.

• In low light, it becomes stretched and loses its compact shape.

💧 Water

• Water only when the soil is completely dry.

• In summer: about every 2–3 weeks (less often in humid homes).

• In winter: once every 6–8 weeks or not at all if kept cool.

• Always water deeply and let all excess drain away — never let it sit in water.

🌡️ Temperature & Dormancy

• Thrives in warm conditions (20–32°C / 68–90°F).

• Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 10°C (50°F) if dry.

• Keep above freezing — frost will damage or kill it.

• A cool, dry winter rest encourages springtime growth.

🌱 Soil

• Use a gritty, fast-draining cactus mix, such as:

  • 2 parts cactus compost

  • 1 part coarse sand or pumice

  • 1 part perlite or grit

• Drainage is crucial to prevent rot.

🍽️ Feeding

• Feed once a month in spring and summer with a cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength.

• No feeding during winter dormancy.

🌸 Flowers

• With good light and age, produces yellow, cup-shaped blooms in late spring or early summer.

• Blooms best when grown in full sun and kept dry in winter.

⚠️ Handling & Common Issues

• The small glochids (hair-like spines) detach easily and can irritate skin — use tongs or gloves to handle!

• Soft or black pads → overwatering or root rot.

• Wrinkled pads → underwatering (a little wrinkling is normal in winter).

• Stretching → needs more light.