Bunny Ears (Opuntia microdasys)

Family: Cactaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Opuntia microdasys is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and gelatinous. — The following notes are for O.; They almost certainly also apply to this species.; Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use.; Sweet and gelatinous.

Habitat & North American Range

Desert hills, uplands, sandy to loamy calcareous soils at elevations of 1700 - 2100 metres. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)