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Bunny Ears Cactus

Opuntia microdasys

true

1 gallon; 5 gallon

Bunny Ears Cactus

In stock

2-3’x4-6’

Sizes:

Bunny Ears Cactus – Opuntia microdasys

Native to northern Mexico and desert regions stretching into Arizona, Bunny Ears Cactus grows 2–3 feet tall and can spread 4–6 feet at maturity. It is made up of lime-green, stem-like pads that are produced in pairs, giving it the “bunny ear” look. The yellow dots on the stems are glochids — clusters of very fine barbed hairs that detach easily and can cause skin irritation, so handle with care.

In late spring to early summer, mature plants bloom profusely with vibrant yellow cup-shaped flowers, followed by small, fleshy fruits. The Latin name microdasys means “small and hairy,” a perfect nod to the plant’s glochids.

This cactus thrives in full sun, with excellent drainage and infrequent watering once established. It tolerates extreme heat and drought but is not frost-hardy below about 20°F without protection. It’s best suited for rock gardens, cactus beds, and wildlife-friendly landscapes where its pads and fruits provide resources for desert species.

Wildlife Value
Host Plant: —
Nectar Source: Flowers attract native bees and other pollinating insects.
Bird Resources: Fruit/Berries; Nectar; Seeds; Cavity; Nest
Bird Species: Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus), LeConte’s Thrasher (Toxostoma lecontei), Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), Black-throated Sparrow (Amphispiza bilineata), Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus)

Plant Care

Native region:

Sonoran Desert

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Full Sun; Part Shade

Mature size:

2-3’x4-6’

Growth rate:

Fast

Flower color:

Yellow

Flower season:

Spring

Pruning:

None required

Cold Hardiness:

25 Degrees

Nectar-producing:

Yes

Attracts pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Butterflies or Moths:

Monarchs:

Larval host:

Bees:

Yes

Bats:

Birds:

Yes

Nest site:

Yes

Nest materials:

Rabbit-resistant:

Yes

Tortoises:

Yes

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on reliable research, personal experience in my own garden, observations from other gardens I’ve visited, and time spent studying plants in their native habitats. I always welcome your feedback and experiences to help me continue educating others!

Cacti:
In my experience, cacti are much happier in filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Their colors are more vibrant and they tend to bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you look closely at how our native barrel cactus and beavertail prickly pear grow in the wild, you’ll often find them tucked among rocks or beneath the shelter of creosote and other shrubs.

⚠️ A note of caution: Cacti and succulents are often illegally collected from the wild, which not only damages plant populations but also disturbs entire ecosystems. In some cases, wild populations of cacti have even gone extinct because of this practice. When purchasing these plants, always be sure they’ve been legally obtained. Look for nursery-grown stock or plants with a native plant certification, and keep that documentation for your records.

Light Requirements:
In our desert (Sonoran/Colorado), “full sun” doesn’t always mean what you might think. Many so-called full-sun plants benefit from and actually appreciate some late-afternoon filtered light—especially during the intense summer months.