Cactus - Opuntia microdasys

Cactus - Bunny Ears

                                          ID#700

 

Native of Mexico, known as “Prickly Pear” is drought tolerant when established. Shrub- forming with oval joints.

Take care not to touch “glochids”(“dots” of minute spines that detach readily and can cause irritation of the skin and eyes).

Not frost tolerant.

Water thoroughly when soil is dry.

HEIGHT X SPREAD: 2-3 ft x 4-5 ft PLANT TYPE: Cactus -Evergreen GROWTH RATE: slow TEXTURE: bold, harsh LIGHT: Full sun - partial shade WATER: water when soil is dry SOIL: well drain soil/ gravel & sand mixture.
As observed in Coastal NC. BLOOMS: creamy yellow with petals thin as tissue paper on terminal edge of pad. About 2” diameter. Early summer. FRUIT AND SEED: 1 -2 inches long, globe shape purple or red fruit. KEY FEATURES: leaves are pads, 3-6 inches long, do not form trunk
A year cycle in the life of ...... at Mooring Hitch About 3” tall pant in a 2” pot with very dry soil. Transfer plant to 4” clay pot with ability to hang pot. Plant bending strongly towards sun. Will try to provide more sun light. Jan. 2013, plant shows denser yellow very fine thorns. Moved to a succulent combo pot.
          Mooring Hitch Gardens       
 

January 2013

April 2012

Additional Information: Lowes Home improvement center. New Bern, NC

Flower SAMPLE photo