Bunny Ears Cactus

Bunny Ears Cactus is a succulent and can survive irregular watering with ease, making it easier to manage for an inexperienced grower. Generally, water the plant during summer and spring at least once a week and cut back to every other week during winter time. It’s important to water deeply for this plant, so that the entire root system is moist. Keep the amount of water consistent as to not over or underwater the plant. Be sure to check the soil first before each watering, as to not overwater it.

Ideal lighting for Bunny Ears Cactus should be bright but diffused, with some direct sunlight during the morning and afternoon. This species can grow well in full sun, but care must be taken to avoid sunburn, which is usually identified by pale or dark blisters formed on the cactus pads. If there is not ample protection from the sun, set the cactus further away or supplement the area with large amounts of shade. The plant can also handle partial shade and time indoors as long as there is plenty of diffused light.

Bunny Ears Cactus can easily withstand temperatures ranging from 32°F–100°F(0–38°C). Sudden drops in temperature should be avoided since they can cause damage to the cactus. Additionally, temperatures over 100°F may damage the cactus as well.

Bunny Ears Cactus thrives in moderate to low levels of humidity, meaning a dry environment is best for this species. If the humidity is too high, it can cause issues of root rot, mildew, and fungus. Ideally, keep the humidity in the area around the cactus around 20 to 40%, preferably between 30–35%.

A soil with sandy or rocky consistency is best for planting the Bunny Ears Cactus. Make sure to use soil that has excellent drainage and aeration and is light to prevent root rot. Commercial potting mix for cacti and succulent plants and use organic matter like well-aged compost or worm castings to make the soil more porous.

To keep the Bunny Ears Cactus healthy, it is recommended to give it a light fertilization in the active growing season every other month. Use a balanced cacti and succulent fertilizer and dilute it to half the strength. Alternately, a low nitrogen fertilizer can also be applied every 3–4 months during active growth. Make sure to keep the fertilizer away from the stems to prevent burning the plant.

The most common pests found on Bunny Ears Cactus are mealybugs and aphids. Fortunately, they are easy to spot and relatively easy to take care of. Socially isolate the infested cactus and treat with a mild soap and water solution and insecticidal soap if needed. Make sure to spray the entire surface of the cactus with the solution, as to reach out to the pests even in the deeper crevices of the plant. If the problem persists, replace the soil and repot the cactus.

The Bunny Ears Cactus requires repotting only when it has outgrown its pot or when its distributed root system requires it. When the time comes to repot the cactus, the best time to do it is in Spring or Summer months, about every 3 to 4 years. Carefully take out the old soil and plant it into a new pot and slightly larger than the old one which has good drainage.

The stems on Bunny Ears Cactus generally do not require pruning to maintain its overall shape. If anything, pruning is best used for cosmetic purposes, as the plant shoots out additional stems. Cut the excess stems to the desired height and place them in a pot of moist soil to allow them to form roots.

Mulching can help give the Bunny Ears Cactus extra protection from pests and diseases. There are a variety of mulches that can be used for this plant, including cedar chips, peat moss, and gravel or sand. Mulch should cover the entire area around the cactus and be placed away from the stems to prevent rot.

The Bunny Ears Cactus is a relatively easy species to propagate since it is extremely easy to get it to root. The main rooting method is through stem cuttings, but it can even be propagated through its pads. For stem cuttings, trim a stem from the cactus and place it in damp soil. Cover the stem halfway with soil and moisten the soil regularly. For vegetative propagation, remove a pad from the plant and let it callous over for a few days, before planting it in sandy soil and giving it plenty of bright indirect light.

Because of the slow-growing nature of the Bunny Ears Cactus, a support is rarely necessary for this species. In some cases where the pads spread farther than the stems can support them, a trellis can be used.

The Bunny Ears Cactus does not require a rest period, given that it is a succulent. A regular watering routine should still be maintained all year round barring extreme cold temperatures.

Bunny Ears Cactus is mildly toxic to animals. If ingested, it may cause temporary and reversible irritation such as vomiting, anorexia, and drooling, so it is best to keep pets away.