How to Care for Cotyledon tomentosa (Bear's Paw)

Korean name: 웅동자(곰발바닥)

Cotyledon tomentosa, commonly known as Bear's Paw, is a succulent plant with thick leaves that have hairy tips resembling a bear's paw. It grows slowly and is well adapted to dry conditions. It prefers bright indirect light and should be protected from intense direct sunlight.

Key facts

Category: Succulent
Difficulty: Easy
Where to keep: indoors
Native to: South Africa
Growth rate: Slow
Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
Traits: succulent, beginner friendly, unique leaves, drought tolerant
Also known as: Bear's Paw, Bear Paw Succulent

Care Guide

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry.
Soil: Use well-draining soil suitable for succulents.
Humidity: Prefers dry conditions.
Temperature: 15~25°C
Fertilizer: Apply diluted succulent fertilizer once a month in spring and summer.

Common questions

How often should you water Cotyledon tomentosa?

Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Roughly every 14 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Cotyledon tomentosa?

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. You can grow it indoors. Soil: Use well-draining soil suitable for succulents.

Is Cotyledon tomentosa safe around pets?

Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.

Is Cotyledon tomentosa good for beginners?

Difficulty: Easy. It is forgiving enough for a first plant. Temperature: 15~25°C. Humidity: Prefers dry conditions. Fertiliser: Apply diluted succulent fertilizer once a month in spring and summer.