This cactus has the trappings of cuteness but will give you a nasty surprise if you try to get too affectionate with it

Why will I love it? It may look as cute as a bunny but beware: this houseplant stings like a bee. This furry cactus – full name: Opuntia microdasys – has pads that resemble rabbit ears and look soft enough to stroke, but resist. Dotted over the plant’s body are fine spines called glochids that will get into your skin and make you itch. If this happens, put sticky tape over the area and pull it away quickly to lift the stingers out.

Light or shade? It loves bright, direct full sunlight.

Where should I put it? On a south-facing windowsill in a room with dry air. It’s best to avoid damp bathrooms or kitchens.

How do I keep it alive? Water weekly in spring and summer, allowing the compost to dry out between waterings, then reduce to a sprinkle every four to six weeks from mid-autumn to early spring. Use fertiliser only during the spring and summer. It can survive temperatures down to 7C-10C.

Did you know… Opuntia is named after the ancient Greek region of Opuntian Locris, the capital city of which was Opus.

This article was amended on 14 December 2021. Opuntia microdasys can survive temperatures down to between 7C and 10C, not to -7C as an earlier version said.