Angel’s-Wings

(Opuntia microdasys)

Angel’s-Wings (Opuntia microdasys)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Opuntia microdasys, commonly known as Angel’s-Wings, is an evergreen succulent native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico, where it thrives in desert landscapes, particularly in rocky areas, arroyos, and scrublands. This plant typically forms a dense shrub about 40–60 cm tall, occasionally growing taller, with pad-like stems that are 6–15 cm long and 4–12 cm broad. The stems are covered with clusters of white or yellow glochids, which are tiny, barbed bristles that detach easily and can cause skin irritation, so handling should be done with care. Angel’s-Wings rarely blooms, but when it does, it produces yellow flowers.

Angel’s-Wings is valued for its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. In cultivation, it is often used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, desert gardens, and as a houseplant. Due to its distinctive pad shape, it is sometimes humorously likened to a rabbit’s head when young. However, gardeners should be cautious as it can become invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent, Shrub
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Very Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico, particularly in rocky areas, arroyos, and scrublands

Other Names

Common Names: Bunny-Ears Prickly-Pear, Polka-Dot Cactus, Bunny Cactus, Golden-Bristle, Golden Bristle Cactus, Cegador, Nopal Cegador, Nopalillo Cegador, Guldopuntia

Scientific Names: , Opuntia microdasys, Opuntia microdasys var. albispina, Opuntia microdasys var. pallida, Opuntia microdasys subsp. microdasys, Opuntia macrocalyx, Opuntia microdasys var. laevior, Cactus microdasys, Opuntia microdasys f. minor, Opuntia microdasys var. minor

GBIF Accepted Name: Opuntia microdasys (Lehm.) Pfeiff.