The Bunny Ears plant, Angel’s-Wings, Polka Dot Cactus is an adorable and low-maintenance succulent native to Mexico. Its distinctive feature is its flat, oval pads that grow in pairs, resembling bunny ears. It’s a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens due to its unique appearance and easy care.

• Genus: Opuntia
• Species: Opuntia microdasys
• Growing Zone: Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. In colder climates, it can be grown as a houseplant or brought indoors during winter.
• Origin: Native to central and northern Mexico.
• Toxicity: The Bunny Ears plant is technically non-toxic to humans and pets. However, its tiny, hair-like spines called glochids can cause significant skin irritation and are difficult to remove. Handle with extreme caution and always wear gloves.
• Health Benefits: While there are no specific health benefits directly associated with the Bunny Ears plant, it, like other succulents, can contribute to improving indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis.
• Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Can tolerate intense sunlight, but some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
• Water: Drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of death for this plant.
• Temperature: Tolerates a range of temperatures but prefers warm conditions. Protect from frost.
• Fertilizer: Light feeder. Fertilize once or twice during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or a specialized cactus fertilizer.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Remove any damaged or unwanted pads.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from pads. Allow the cut pad to callus over before planting in well-draining soil.
• The Bunny Ears plant is a slow-growing cactus that can eventually reach 2-3 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide.
• Its pads are covered in small, fuzzy areoles that give it a polka-dot appearance. These areoles contain the glochids, so handle with care.
• It may produce yellow flowers in spring or summer, followed by reddish-purple fruits.
• Bunny Ears plants are relatively pest and disease resistant.

In Columbus, Georgia: The Bunny Ears plant can thrive outdoors year-round, enjoying the abundant sunlight. Provide some afternoon shade during peak summer and protect from frost during occasional winter dips.

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