Opuntia microdasys

Opuntia microdasys is native to Central and Northern Mexico. Synonyms for the plant include Bunny Ears Cactus,Polka Dot Cactus,Bunny Cactus. The plants have been naturalized in many parts of the world to the point of being declared a weed.

Opuntia microdasys is a very proliferous grower and can form large clumps. The pads are are of medium size. Simlar to most opuntia species the pads break off easily and root where they fall.This way the plants can spread and cover large areas.

Opuntia microdasys has no spines but instead has small yellow spiny glochids which usually remain behind in the skin after touching the cactus and can cause considerable irritation. Caution should be observed when handling this cactus. A form with white glochids exists which is known as var albispina.

Opuntia Microdasys has yellow flowers and is a popular garden plant.

Opuntia microdasys in cultivation.

Opuntia microdasys pads.