Scientitific Name
Cotyledon Tomentosa
How to Grow and Care
Cotyledon Tomentosa, or also known as Bear’s paws, is one of the most adorable members in the succulents family. It has a peculiar thick, ovate fuzzy green leaves with prominent dark red toothed edges that resemble the claws of a bear and velvety coating, this little fella does an awesome job in adding beautiful contrast and unique texture to any space. Bear’s paws have a low, shrub-like growing habitat that can reach over 30cm in height and usually produce a large orange bell-shaped flowers during spring. Although Cotyledon tomentosa is fairly easy to take care of, their leaves are quite fragile. So knowing how you can properly take care of them is a must.
LIGHT
If you are thinking of having your Cotyledon Tomentosa as a house-plant, you need to place them near a south-facing window or in a bright place where the can enjoy at least six hours of indirect lights per day.
However, if you want to see your little paws together with your other succulents in the garden, you first need to find a place where it’s nice and shady. Preferably, a bright shaded spot where their little paws won’t get too much direct sunlight. Since Bear’s Paw is a very fragile plant, they can easily suffer from overwatering. So consider planting them in a slightly sandy, well-drained soil where water doesn’t collect after rain or irrigation.
TEMPERATURE
Note that Cotyledon Tomentosa is not cold hardy as well and can easily die when the temperature drops below 30° F (-1° C). So if you are located in an area when the weather gets too cold, planting them in a container or pot where it can easily be carried indoors. It is also best to avoid feeding and watering them during this time.
WATERING
In watering, Cotyledon Tomentosa is likely similar to any other succulents – they love to have their roots to be soaked but must be allowed to dry out. To be specific, give them regular deep watering during the summer season or when there is no rainfall. You can do this by supplying ¼ cup of water (for smaller paws) and one to 1 ½ cups of water (for large) paws at least once a week to keep them healthy.
As for potted Bear’s Paw, it is only necessary to water them when the soil has completely dried. Soak the soil completely until the water cleared from the porosity in their pot, and remove the accumulated water from the saucer after it finishes draining.
In the winter, the plants do not require much water as they become dormant. Just give them a drink of at least once every other week so their soil will not completely dry out and your Bear’s Paw don’t shrivel.Like most succulents, fungal diseases caused by too much watering are something to watch out for. This could show itself with hobble leaves that would easily collapse (Bear’s paw leaves have a habit to do this so be extra cautious when handling them).