How to Grow and Care for Teddy Bear Succulent

The Teddy Bear Succulent, Cyanotis beddomei, is a distinctive plant originating from India. Its common name is derived from the soft, fine, brownish hairs that cover its stems and leaves, giving it a fuzzy, tactile appearance. This plant features fleshy, lance-shaped leaves that are olive green on top and a reddish-purple underneath. With a creeping growth habit, it is well-suited for hanging baskets where its stems can cascade.

Teddy Bear Succulent Care

Light

Proper lighting is a primary component of this plant’s care. It thrives in a location that receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it near a window with a sheer curtain can provide the right amount of filtered light, protecting the leaves from the harshness of direct sun. Too much direct exposure can cause the delicate, fuzzy leaves to scorch.

Soil

The right soil provides the foundation for a healthy root system. This plant requires a well-draining potting mix to prevent water from pooling around its roots, which can lead to rot. A commercially available cactus or succulent mix is a good starting point. To further improve aeration and drainage, this mix can be amended with materials like perlite or vermiculite.

Water

Watering for this succulent is a balancing act. It prefers a “soak and dry” method, where the soil is watered thoroughly until water runs from the drainage holes, and then allowed to dry out completely before the next watering. Unlike many other succulents, the Teddy Bear succulent can be a bit thirstier and may require more frequent attention, especially during its active growing season. Consistently wet soil is a sign of overwatering that can lead to root decay.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant performs best within a temperature range of 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 30°C). It should be protected from frost and extreme cold, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation in most climates. The Teddy Bear succulent appreciates average to slightly higher humidity levels. In particularly dry indoor environments, occasional misting can be beneficial to maintain ambient moisture.

Fertilizer

To support its growth during the spring and summer, a regular feeding schedule is advantageous. A balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer can be applied every two months during this period. It is recommended to dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid overwhelming the plant. During the fall and winter, when growth slows, fertilizing should be reduced or stopped to allow the plant a period of rest.

Propagating Teddy Bear Succulents

Multiplying your collection of Teddy Bear Succulents is most easily achieved through stem cuttings. The process begins with selecting a healthy stem and taking a cutting that is a few inches long, ensuring it has several leaves. This plant roots so readily that some growers plant the fresh cutting directly into soil or water.

Once the cutting is prepared, it can be placed in a container of fresh water until roots develop, or it can be inserted directly into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. If planting in soil, it helps to keep the substrate lightly moist to encourage root formation.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you notice your plant developing long, spaced-out stems, it is likely not receiving enough light. This leggy growth is a sign the plant is stretching to find a brighter location. Moving it to an area with more indirect sunlight and pruning the elongated stems will encourage a fuller, more compact shape.

Browning or crispy leaves often point to a problem with moisture. This can be a sign of underwatering or that the ambient humidity is too low. Addressing watering frequency or providing more humidity can resolve this issue. Pests like mealybugs or spider mites may appear, which can be managed with applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil.