Bunny Ear-Cinnamon

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 1-2 feet
Spread: 2-3 feet
Flower Color: yellow or orange
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bunny Ear-Cinnamon Cactus (Opuntia microdasys 'Cinnamon') – A Unique Addition to Phoenix Valley Xeriscapes

The Bunny Ear-Cinnamon Cactus, scientifically known as Opuntia microdasys 'Cinnamon', is a standout variety of the Bunny Ear Cactus, prized for its cinnamon-colored spines and easy-care nature. Native to Mexico, this cactus is an excellent choice for gardeners in the Phoenix Valley looking to add a unique, drought-tolerant plant to their landscape or indoor collection.

Unique Appearance with Cinnamon-Colored Spines

This cactus typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and spreads 2 to 3 feet wide, making it a compact and visually interesting plant. Its pad-like stems resemble rabbit ears, creating a dense, shrubby appearance as it matures. What sets the 'Cinnamon' variety apart is its reddish-brown spines, which give it a striking and decorative look compared to the traditional white or yellow glochids of other Bunny Ear varieties.

Perfect for Xeriscaping and Low-Maintenance Gardens

The Bunny Ear-Cinnamon Cactus thrives in full sun to partial shade and is perfectly suited for the desert climate of the Phoenix Valley. It prefers well-draining soil and requires minimal watering once established, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and container gardening. Its drought-tolerant nature means you can enjoy its beauty without the need for frequent maintenance, a key benefit for water-conscious gardeners in the area.

Seasonal Blooms

While flowering is less common in cultivation, this cactus can produce yellow or orange blooms in late spring or early summer. However, its main attraction lies in its colorful spines and unique form, perfect for adding a whimsical touch to any landscape.

Why Choose the Bunny Ear-Cinnamon Cactus for Your Phoenix Garden?

• Drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it a great choice for xeriscaping.
• Features unique cinnamon-colored spines, adding visual interest and color to your garden.
• Compact size makes it suitable for rock gardens, patios, and indoor containers.
• Well-adapted to the arid conditions of the Phoenix Valley.

Care Instructions

The Bunny Ear-Cinnamon Cactus is easy to care for but should be handled with care due to its detachable glochids, which can be irritating to the skin. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade, and it prefers well-drained, sandy soil. Ensure that the soil is allowed to dry between waterings, as overwatering can cause root rot.

Add a Unique Desert Plant to Your Phoenix Garden

The Bunny Ear-Cinnamon Cactus is a visually appealing, low-maintenance cactus that fits perfectly into drought-tolerant gardens or as a unique indoor plant. Its reddish-brown spines and easy-care nature make it an excellent choice for cactus enthusiasts and homeowners looking to add a touch of the desert to their landscape.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Bunny Ear Cactus - Cinnamon

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No staking required; Bunny Ear Cactus grows in a bushy, rounded form with flat pads and distinctive cinnamon-colored spines

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil, ensuring good contact with the soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session, but ensure the water drains well to avoid root rot

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Bunny Ear Cactus - Cinnamon is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins showing consistent new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hotter months, especially if rainfall is low. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 7-10 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall. Bunny Ear Cactus - Cinnamon is drought-tolerant once established but still benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells in the winter.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure water reaches the root zone and promotes deep root growth. Avoid wetting the cactus pads directly, as this can cause rot.
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering. This ensures water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage strong root development.
• Number of Emitters: Place 1 emitter per plant to ensure even water distribution around the root zone. Adjust the number of emitters as the plant matures.
• Irrigation Zone: Set up a dedicated irrigation zone for drought-tolerant plants like Bunny Ear Cactus - Cinnamon, allowing you to adjust the watering schedule based on their specific needs.
• Adjusting Frequency: In the summer, you may need to increase watering frequency to every 7-10 days to keep the plant hydrated. In winter, reduce watering to every 4-6 weeks, or adjust based on rainfall.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check the soil moisture regularly. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: Bunny Ear Cactus - Cinnamon is highly drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil drains well and avoid standing water around the base.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but avoid placing mulch directly against the cactus pads to prevent rot and pest problems.