Succulent 'Bear's Paw' – Soft, Fuzzy, and Full of Character

The Succulent 'Bear’s Paw', scientifically known as Cotyledon tomentosa, is a charming and uniquely shaped succulent beloved for its chubby, paw-like leaves. Each leaf is thick, velvety, and tipped with reddish “claws,” making it resemble a tiny bear paw. Native to South Africa, this plant is a favorite among succulent collectors for its playful shape, fuzzy texture, and warm-colored blooms when in season.

Compact, slow-growing, and full of personality, Bear’s Paw thrives in sunny indoor spots and is perfect for small pots, windowsills, and succulent arrangements.

Product Highlights

Light: Requires bright, direct to very bright indirect light; best placed near a south- or west-facing window

Water: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water sparingly to avoid root rot

Size: Ships approximately 3–6” tall in a 3" or 4" nursery pot; plump, low-growing rosette form

Toxicity: Mildly toxic if ingested by pets or humans

Style: Thick, fuzzy green leaves with red-tipped notches that resemble paw prints; compact and textured appearance

Care Level: Easy to moderate; ideal for succulent lovers and sunny indoor spaces

How to Care for Your Succulent 'Bear’s Paw'

Place your Bear’s Paw in a location that receives plenty of direct or very bright indirect light throughout the day. Without enough light, it may become leggy and lose its signature paw shape. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix, and always allow the soil to fully dry before watering.

This plant is sensitive to overwatering and prefers to stay dry, especially in the winter months when it goes semi-dormant. Make sure the container has drainage holes, and avoid watering the fuzzy leaves directly. With proper care, it may produce bell-shaped orange or coral blooms in spring or summer.

Bear’s Paw thrives in warm, dry environments and does not require high humidity. It is best grown indoors unless you're in a warm, arid climate.

Why Garden Wrld?

Each Bear’s Paw is greenhouse-grown and selected for plump, healthy leaves and strong root systems. We ship with care using eco-conscious packaging, and every order includes a detailed digital care guide. Our plant care team is also available for personalized support after your plant arrives.

Pro Tip: To maintain the compact “paw” shape and rich red tips, give your plant as much light as possible and rotate it regularly to prevent stretching.