Bear's Paw

Cotyledon tomentosa (Bear's Paw) is a succulent from the Little Karoo region of South Africa. It takes its common name from the rounded, densely fuzzy leaves tipped with reddish-brown claw-like projections resembling the paws of a bear. The claw tips intensify in color during cooler months, and tubular orange-red flowers appear in spring. Plants grow 15–30 cm tall. Full sun produces the best coloration and compact growth. Watering should be done only when the soil is dry; summer heat and humidity require vigilant attention to prevent rot in the dense leaf hairs. Water should be applied at the base rather than overhead to avoid wetting the hairs. Minimum temperature of 3–5°C is tolerated. Stem cuttings propagate readily. The subspecies ladismithiensis (White Bear) has denser white hairs and is sold as a separate variety.

Moderate watering