Common Name(s): Variegated Bear Paws, Kitten Paws, Varkoorplakkies (Afrikaans)
Origin: Native to the Little Karoo region of the Western Cape, South Africa.
Description:
Cotyledon tomentosa variegated, affectionately known as Bear Paws, is one of South Africa’s most endearing and sought-after succulent treasures. This charming, multi-branched shrublet is instantly recognisable for its plump, fuzzy leaves that resemble little bear paws complete with reddish-brown “claws” at the tips. The variegated form features creamy-yellow to white patches along the leaf margins, creating a soft, pastel effect against the velvety green background. When exposed to brighter light, the white variegation often blushes with delicate pink tones, and the leaf tips deepen to a rich burgundy red. This slow-growing plant reaches up to 30-45 cm tall, with thin, woody stems that give it a delicate, bonsai-like appearance. In late winter to spring, it produces clusters of nodding, urn-shaped flowers in shades of orange-yellow to coral-pink, a magnet for sunbirds in the garden. The leaves are quite fragile and may drop if bumped, but this only adds to its quirky, collectable charm.
Care:
☀️ Light: Prefers bright, filtered light or partial sun. Grows best under 40% shade cloth outdoors or in a bright windowsill indoors. Morning sun enhances the pink blushing and red claws.
💧 Water: Drought-tolerant. Water thoroughly during its growing season (autumn and spring), allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in summer heat and keep almost dry in winter when dormant.
🌱 Soil: Requires a well-draining, gritty mix with some organic matter. A blend of succulent soil with added pumice, perlite, or coarse sand is ideal.
🌡️ Temp: Protect from frost. Hardy to around -1°C to -5°C if kept dry, but best kept above 5°C in containers.
🌸 Flowering: Produces orange-yellow to coral-pink, bell-shaped flowers in late winter to spring.
⚠️ Note: Leaves are fragile and easily dislodged; handle with care during repotting or transport.
Pet Friendly: ❌ Highly toxic to pets – Contains cardiac toxins that are poisonous if ingested by cats, dogs, horses, or other domestic animals. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and irregular heart rate. Keep well out of reach of all animals.
Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings during the growing season. Allow cuttings to dry for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
