Bunny Ears
Opuntia microdasys
NEMBA category
English: Bunny Ears, Bunny Ear Cactus, Angel's Wings, Golden-bristle Cactus, Polka-dot Cactus
Opuntia microdasys, commonly known as bunny ears or angel wings, is a small, shrubby cactus characterised by its flattened, oval pads covered in dense clusters of tiny, hair-like glochids instead of large spines, giving it a soft, fuzzy appearance.
Native to Mexico, it has been introduced to various regions, including South Africa, where it has become an alien invasive species. The plant thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, spreading rapidly through both seed dispersal and vegetative reproduction from detached pads. Its dense growth can out-compete native vegetation, reducing biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems.
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Origins: Mexico
Overall Appearance: A low-growing, clump-forming cactus with flattened, jointed stems (cladodes) covered in dense clusters of glochids (tiny, barbed bristles). Typically less than 1 meter tall.
Leaves: Reduced to spines.
Flowers: Yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Fruits: Spiny, pear-shaped fruits that are green when young and turn reddish-purple when ripe.
Seeds: Numerous, small seeds within the fruit.
Soil Type: Tolerates a wide range of soil types, including dry and rocky soils.
Aspect: Full sun.
Edible Parts: Fruits are edible, but caution is needed to remove the spines and glochids.
Poisonous Parts: Glochids can cause painful injuries to animals and humans. They are difficult to remove and can cause irritation for days.
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