Plant Passport
Bunny Ears Cactus
Opuntia microdasys
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP OPUN TIAM ICRO
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Bunny Ears Cactus
Schijfcactus
Opuntia microdasys
“My pads look playful, but the tiny glochids are not a toy.”
succulentdrought tolerantbright windowcompactbeginner friendly
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Pet safety
- Mildly toxic
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids th.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids th.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Placement
- Best in a hot sunny windowsill where nobody touches the pads, protected from harsh midday sun and cold draughts.
- Temperature
- 8–35°C
- Humidity
- low
Free printable Plant Passport card
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Plant Passport
Bunny Ears Cactus
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water deeply, let the pot drain, then wait until the mix has dried clearly before the next round.
Soil Mix
mineral cactus mix with grit, little compost and a clay pot if possible
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 8 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
South, south-west or the brightest east window; filter scorching summer glass when needed.
Best Room
a hot sunny windowsill where nobody touches the pads
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids th.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Bunny Ears Cactus closer to the brightest indirect position before autumn light drops Cue: Flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids th.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids th.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids that look soft but d, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Flat oval pads dotted with yellow or white glochids th.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 8 days
- Winter
- Every 18 days
Feel well into the mix; water only when it has dried clearly.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose Bunny Ears Cactus with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The fuzzy dots are glochids: tiny barbed bristles, not harmless fluff.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native to arid parts of Mexico, where pads store water and tolerate intense sun.
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