Plate No. 27

Bear's Paw

Cotyledon tomentosa

"Fuzzy paws tipped in red"

Native to

Karoo region of the Western Cape, South Africa

Botanical illustration of Bear's Paw — Cotyledon tomentosa — drawn from life

Identification

Is this your plant?

Compare these reference photographs to help identify a bear's paw in your own collection.

Whole plant
A Bear's Paw shown in full — overall shape and habit.
Leaf detail
Close-up of Bear's Paw leaves — texture, color, and edges.
Flowers
Bear's Paw in bloom — flower form and color.
Growth form
Bear's Paw growing habit — stems, base, and offsets.

History

A brief account

Bear’s Paw is a wonderfully tactile succulent, with fuzzy leaves that look as though they have been wrapped in soft fur. Described in the 19th century, it takes its name from the small claw-like notches at each leaf tip, which give the plant its unmistakable paw-like profile. The dense felt of hairs helps trap morning dew and reflect harsh sun, making it well suited to bright yet dry environments. Its charming texture and compact form have made it a cherished plant for collectors and windowsill growers alike.

How to care for

Place Bear's Paw according to its light needs: Bright indirect to gentle direct light. For watering, sparingly — let soil dry fully; avoid wetting the hairs. For the potting medium, use standard gritty succulent mix. Good drainage is essential: let surplus water escape freely and never leave the roots standing in a wet saucer. 10–25°C. Frost-tender. Check the compost before watering instead of following a rigid calendar, since light, temperature, pot size and season all affect how quickly it dries. During slower growth, reduce watering and wait longer between drinks.

How to propagate

Stem cuttings root well in dry, gritty mix. Propagation is most reliable during the plant's active growing season, when warmth and good light help new roots establish. Start with clean tools and healthy material, and keep the new plant in conditions appropriate for the parent. Where a cutting or division creates a wound, allow the surface to dry before planting unless the method calls for immediate rooting in water or moist mix. Once roots form and fresh growth appears, gradually move the young Bear's Paw into its normal watering routine; excess moisture is especially risky while the root system is still small.

Cultivation

Quick tips for care & planting

Light: Bright indirect to gentle direct light.
Water: Sparingly — let soil dry fully; avoid wetting the hairs.
Soil: Standard gritty succulent mix.
Temperature: 10–25°C. Frost-tender.
Propagation: Stem cuttings root well in dry, gritty mix.