The opuntias can be very decorative, but they are often very easy to care for. For all their similarities, they are sometimes very different. Some species are hardy, others are not. There are also edible and ornamental varieties.

The Opuntia microdasys does not grow as large as other Opuntia species

The Opuntia microdasys is more of an ornamental cacti. Its other names, Rabbit Ear Cactus and Goldpoint Opuntia, say a lot about its appearance. Because the segments of this cactus are elongated oval, the shape of the hare or rabbit ears is quite similar. The glochids (bristle-like fine spines) are yellow to brownish and arranged in points. Its light yellow flowers appear in summer.

Plant the Opuntia microdasys

The rabbit ear cactus likes a permeable and loose soil with as little lime content as possible. If you don't want to use cactus soil, mix compost and sand with some peat. Be sure to place the rabbit ear cactus in a sunny spot. With a maximum size of one meter, this cactus is also suitable for smaller rooms. Plant the Opuntia microdasys in fresh soil every year.

Water and fertilize the Opuntia microdasys

As a desert plant, the Opuntia microdasys does not tolerate waterlogging. It needs significantly more water during the growth phase than in winter. Water thoroughly and regularly from April to August, whenever the top layer of soil has dried well. About every two weeks add some liquid fertilizer to the irrigation water.

The Opuntia microdasys in winter

The rabbit ear cactus is conditionally hardy to about - 8 °C. In a mild area where temperatures rarely drop below freezing, it can be kept outside all year round. Protect the roots from frost by wrapping the planter and placing it on a styrofoam sheet (€35.50). Water your rabbit ear cactus just enough to keep the root ball from drying out completely and don't fertilize at all until spring.

The essentials in brief:

  • easy-care
  • Conditionally hardy to - 8 °C
  • Flowering time in summer
  • Location: as sunny and warm as possible
  • water thoroughly, but avoid waterlogging
  • fertilize about every 14 days
  • water very little in winter and do not fertilize

tips

Be careful, the fine thorns of the bunny ear cactus have small barbs. A touch can be very painful.

Category:

Care tips