Bear Paw Succulent: Plant Care and Propagation

The Bear Paw succulent, Cotyledon tomentosa, is a plant native to South Africa known for its thick, fuzzy green leaves. These leaves feature small, reddish-brown “claws” at the tips, resembling an animal’s paw, making it a favorite among succulent collectors. This small, branching shrub can produce bell-shaped, orange-to-red flowers in spring or summer.

Essential Bear Paw Succulent Care

Light Requirements

Bear Paw succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight for about six hours a day, making a spot near a southern-facing window ideal. While they tolerate some direct sun, avoid harsh afternoon exposure, which can scorch the leaves. Sufficient light also encourages the development of the reddish “claws” on the leaf tips.

Soil Mix

A well-draining succulent or cactus mix is required to prevent water from lingering around the roots. You can purchase a commercial mix or create your own by combining potting soil with amendments like perlite or coarse sand. This combination improves drainage and aeration, creating a gritty medium that dries out between waterings.

Watering Wisely

Follow the “soak and dry” method for this succulent. Water the plant thoroughly until water runs from the pot’s drainage holes, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the spring and summer growing season, you may water every two to three weeks, reducing this frequency during winter. It is better to err on the side of underwatering, as overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot.

Ideal Temperature and Humidity

Cotyledon tomentosa prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). These succulents are not cold-hardy and must be protected from frost. If temperatures in your area drop below 30°F (-1°C), grow them in containers that can be moved indoors. They thrive in dry conditions and do not require high humidity, as this can contribute to fungal problems.

Fertilizing Needs

Feed your Bear Paw succulent during its spring and summer growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength once every two to four weeks to avoid damaging the roots. Suspend feeding during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Potting and Repotting Your Bear Paw

Choose a container with at least one drainage hole to allow excess water to escape. Materials like terracotta or unglazed ceramic are excellent choices because their porous nature helps the soil dry more quickly.

Repot every two years or when the plant becomes root-bound. The best time to do this is in the spring. Gently remove the plant, shake off the old soil, and inspect the roots. Place it in a new pot that is slightly larger, using fresh, well-draining soil, and wait a week before watering to allow the roots to recover.

Propagating Bear Paw Succulents

The most reliable propagation method is through stem cuttings. Use a clean blade to take a cutting from a mature plant with at least six leaves. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for several days to prevent rot.

Once callused, place the cutting on top of soil and keep it lightly moist. Roots should form in about three weeks during the growing season. Leaf propagation is very difficult with Cotyledon tomentosa, so using a stem cutting offers the best chance of success.

Common Problems and Solutions

Leaf Drop or Shriveling

Leaf drop and shriveling indicate watering issues. Wrinkled, soft leaves are a sign of underwatering and require a thorough watering. Conversely, mushy, yellowing, and dropping leaves point to overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule to ensure the soil dries completely between waterings.

Pest Infestations

Bear Paw succulents can attract pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, while spider mites create fine webbing. To treat these pests, dab them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

Root Rot and Overwatering Signs

Root rot is a serious threat to these succulents, caused by excessive moisture in the soil. Signs include a wilting or yellowing plant, mushy stems, and a foul odor from the soil. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from its pot, trim away any black or mushy roots, and repot it in fresh, dry soil.

Understanding Bear Paw Succulent Toxicity

The Bear Paw succulent is toxic to both pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, these compounds can lead to heart-related issues.

Place the plant out of reach of pets and small children. Wearing gloves when handling the plant is a good precaution to avoid irritation from the sap. Promptly clean up any fallen leaves to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion by a pet.