Bear's Paw
cotyledon tomentosa
Also known as: ["Bear's Paw Plant","Velvet Bear"]
Overview
A succulent with distinctive, velvety, paw-shaped leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Cotyledon |
| Botanical Name: | Cotyledon tomentosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C, tolerates mild frost but prefers warmth"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; tolerates some direct morning sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems close to the base; avoid cutting into the main stem.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; shape the plant as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or brown leaf tips in heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot due to reduced water uptake in cold, damp soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid overwatering; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop sunburn spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Cotyledon tomentosa. The bufadienolides present can cause irritation and discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cotyledon tomentosa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of bufadienolides. The effects are typically not life-threatening but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCotyledon tomentosa contains bufadienolides, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotyledon tomentosa toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Cotyledon tomentosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Cotyledon tomentosa flower?
A: Yes, it produces small, bell-shaped, orange-red flowers in the summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; tolera |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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