Cotyledon tomentosa
Also known as: Bear's paws
Bear's paws: plush grey leaves that end in red-toothed 'claws' — the most pettable succulent in existence (resist petting; the felt holds water). It belongs to the Cotyledon genus, comes from South Africa (Plettenberg Bay area), stays around 20–45 cm, and tolerates USDA 10–11; protect below 5 °C. Individual plants vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Key facts
- Genus: Cotyledon
- Origin: South Africa (Plettenberg Bay area)
- Mature size: 20–45 cm
- Hardiness: USDA 10–11; protect below 5 °C
- Toxicity: ⚠️ Toxic to pets and livestock
Succulent at a glance
- Genus
- Cotyledon
- Origin
- South Africa (Plettenberg Bay area)
- Mature size
- 20–45 cm
- Growth habit
- Upright branching shrub with plush 'paw' leaf clusters
- Leaf colour
- Grey-green felted leaves with red toothed 'claw' tips
- Flower colour
- Orange-red bell clusters
- Hardiness
- USDA 10–11; protect below 5 °C
- Toxicity
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets and livestock
- Other names
- Bear's paws
About the Cotyledon tomentosa
Bear's paws: plush grey leaves that end in red-toothed 'claws' — the most pettable succulent in existence (resist petting; the felt holds water). Drops leaf 'fingers' when overwatered. Toxic to pets.
Care and cultivation
Cotyledons are shrubby South Africans with thick decorative leaves. Bright light, a normal succulent mix and moderate watering suit them. Bear's paws (C. tomentosa) drops its 'fingers' if overwatered. Note the toxicity: keep them away from pets and wash hands after pruning. Light: Bright light with some direct sun. Water: Every 2 weeks in growth; little in winter. Use a Standard succulent mix.
Description
Cotyledon tomentosa is a Cotyledon succulent from South Africa (Plettenberg Bay area). Bear's paws: plush grey leaves that end in red-toothed 'claws' — the most pettable succulent in existence (resist petting; the felt holds water). Drops leaf 'fingers' when overwatered. Toxic to pets.
Identification
Look for: Grey-green felted leaves with red toothed 'claw' tips leaves in a 20–45 cm form. Also answers to Bear's paws. The genus is Cotyledon, which already narrows down the care requirements considerably. Nickname: 'Bear's paws'.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water my Cotyledon tomentosa?
Every 2 weeks in growth; little in winter. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings, and water less in winter when growth slows.
How much light does Cotyledon tomentosa need?
Bright light with some direct sun. If the plant stretches or loses colour, it needs more light.
Related succulents
Succulent information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Cotyledon tomentosa, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.