Opuntia microdasys var. albispina – White Bunny Ears Cactus for Bright, Dry Spaces
 
Opuntia microdasys var. albispina, better known as the White Bunny Ears Cactus, is a slow-growing Mexican native selected for its dense coating of soft-looking white glochids. These tiny barbed hairs create a velvety appearance that sets it apart from the standard form — but they detach easily and can irritate skin, so always handle with care.
 
This compact cactus thrives in sunny, low-humidity environments and needs very little water. It's ideal for south-facing windowsills, minimal interiors, and dry balconies in frost-free climates. Mature plants can produce bright yellow flowers under intense light, although blooming indoors remains rare. Some clones may show pale yellow glochids depending on age and growing conditions.
 
● What Makes Opuntia microdasys var. albispina Stand Out
 
 
Distinctive Look: Thick white glochids give each pad a frosted appearance
Indoor-Friendly: Grows to 30 – 50 cm; perfect for compact spaces
Drought-Proof: Needs only occasional deep watering
Non-Toxic (But Irritating): Safe for pets, but handle with gloves or tongs
Hardy and Long-Lived: Thrives in full sun with little care for years
 
 
● Botanical Origin and Classification
 
 
Taxonomy: Cultivar of Opuntia microdasys (Lehm.) Pfeiff., 1837
Basionym: Cactus microdasys Lehm.
Native Habitat: Arid highlands and deserts of northern and central Mexico
Typical Conditions: Full sun, rocky substrate, low rainfall
 
 
● Indoor Care for White Bunny Ears Cactus
 
 
Light
 
6+ hours of direct sunlight daily is essential
South- or west-facing windows are ideal
Use a grow light in low-light seasons to prevent stretching
Watering
Water only when soil is bone dry — every 2 – 4 weeks depending on season and temperature
Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent rot
Do not mist — this cactus thrives in dry air
Temperature and Humidity
Ideal range: 20 – 35 °C; tolerates short dips to 10 °C
Protect from frost and prolonged cold (below 5 °C)
Best in RH under 50%; requires excellent airflow
Outdoor dormancy: Growth naturally slows in cooler temperatures without requiring special treatment indoors
Soil and Container
Use a cactus soil mix enhanced with perlite or grit
Avoid peat-heavy or moisture-retaining substrates
Terracotta pots are ideal for better moisture regulation
Fertilizing
Feed monthly in warm months using low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer
Do not fertilize in winter or under low light
Repotting
Repot every 2 – 3 years or when pot becomes rootbound
Let soil dry fully before repotting
Use gloves or tongs to avoid glochids
Propagation
Twist off a healthy pad and let callous for 2 – 3 days
Insert into dry, gritty substrate and water lightly once roots form
 
● Troubleshooting and Common Issues
 
 
Pests
 
Mealybugs or scale: Dab with alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap
Root Rot
Symptoms: Soft pads, blackened base
Solution: Remove rot, let callous, and replant in dry substrate
Sunburn
Symptoms: Pale or scorched patches
Solution: Acclimate slowly to strong sun or move to filtered light
 
● Name Meaning: Etymology
 
 
Opuntia – Named after the ancient Greek city of Opus. microdasys – From Greek “mikros” (small) and “dasys” (hairy), referring to the fine glochids. albispina – Latin for “white-spined,” describing the cultivar’s signature appearance.
 
 
● Frequently Asked Questions
 
 
Is it toxic? Not chemically toxic, but glochids can irritate skin and eyes. Handle with gloves or tongs.
Will it flower indoors? Rare, but possible in intense light. Yellow blooms may appear on older pads in summer.
Can it grow outdoors? Yes – in frost-free zones or containers brought inside for winter. Ensure full sun and no excess moisture.
How fast does it grow? Very slowly – typically 1 – 3 pads per year with strong sun and proper care.
 
Add sculptural beauty and low-maintenance flair to your space. Order Opuntia microdasys var. albispina today and enjoy a unique desert plant that thrives on sunlight and simplicity.