Bear's Paw
Bear's paw is an irresistibly cute succulent whose chunky, fuzzy leaves are tipped with rows of little reddish 'claws', so each leaf looks like a small bear's paw.
🗓️ Last reviewed: July 2026
Overview
Bear's paw is an irresistibly cute succulent whose chunky, fuzzy leaves are tipped with rows of little reddish 'claws', so each leaf looks like a small bear's paw. Compact, easy and endearing, it is a popular novelty succulent for a bright sill - though, like its cotyledon relatives, it is toxic to pets.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Cotyledon tomentosa comes from South Africa, growing on rocky, well-drained ground in bright, dry conditions. It is grown worldwide as an easy, distinctive fuzzy-leaved succulent.
Appearance
A small, branching shrublet of thick, plump, oval leaves covered in fine, soft velvety hairs, each leaf tipped with a row of pointed reddish-brown teeth - the 'claws' - that deepen in colour in strong light. Bell-shaped orange flowers hang from mature plants in spring.
Why People Love It - Qualities & Benefits
People adore the plump, fuzzy, claw-tipped leaves and the charming paw shape, along with its easy, compact, forgiving nature. Its tactile texture and cuteness make it a favourite novelty and gift succulent.
Care
Light
Bright light with some direct sun keeps it compact and deepens the reddish claw tips - a sunny windowsill is ideal. In low light it stretches, and the claws and fuzz fade.
Watering
Water when the soil is fully dry, then soak and drain. Water into the soil, not over the fuzzy leaves, which can trap water and mark or rot. Keep drier in winter. It tolerates drought far better than wet feet.
Soil & Potting
A gritty, free-draining succulent mix in a pot with drainage. Good drainage prevents the rot that overwatering causes.
Humidity & Temperature
Warm, dry air suits it; it dislikes humidity, which can spoil the hairy leaves. Ordinary dry room air is ideal; keep it above about 7-10°C.
Feeding
A much-diluted succulent feed once or twice in the growing season is plenty. It is slow-growing and needs little feeding.
Repotting
Repot every couple of years in spring as it grows, handling the fuzzy leaves gently since marks show. It stays small, so it is content in a modest pot for a long time.
Propagation
Easy from leaf or stem cuttings: remove a healthy leaf or short stem, let it callus for several days, and set it on gritty soil to root. Water only lightly until established.
Common Problems & Pests
Overwatering rot is the main danger, made worse if water sits on the hairy leaves. Mealybugs can hide in the fuzz. Stretching and fading claws mean too little light.
Toxicity & Safety
Bear's paw is a cotyledon, and cotyledons contain bufadienolides that are toxic to cats, dogs and other animals (and people) if eaten, potentially affecting the heart. Keep it well out of reach of pets and children, and if a pet chews it, contact a vet. Enjoy this one at a safe height in a pet-aware home.
Pros & Cons
Pros: irresistibly cute fuzzy claw-tipped leaves, easy, compact and slow, easy to propagate. Cons: toxic to pets and people if eaten, hairy leaves dislike water and humidity, needs good light to keep colour.
Best Suited For
An endearing, easy novelty succulent for a bright windowsill - best in a pet-free home, or kept well out of reach of any curious animals or children.
FAQ
Is bear's paw toxic to cats and dogs? Yes - as a cotyledon it contains compounds toxic to pets if eaten; keep it out of reach.
Why is mine stretching and losing its red claws? Too little light - move it to a sunnier spot and new growth stays compact with deeper colour.