Cotyledon tomentosa, commonly known as Bear’s Paw, is an evergreen succulent native to the rocky outcrops and slopes of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. It is a low-growing plant, typically reaching a height of 0.4 feet (0.1 meters) and spreading up to 2 feet (0.6 meters) wide. Bear’s Paw is characterized by its distinctive, fuzzy, green leaves that resemble a bear’s paw, with reddish tooth-like markings on the edges. It produces bell-shaped yellow and orange flowers in late spring to early summer, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Bear’s Paw is valued for its unique foliage and is often used in container gardens, rock gardens, and as a houseplant. It is appreciated for its ease of maintenance and drought tolerance. In cultivation, it requires a well-draining soil mix and should be watered thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering, especially in winter, can be detrimental. It prefers bright light and ample airflow to thrive. While it is dormant in summer, it is sensitive to frost and must be protected to prevent scarring of the leaves.CC BY-SA 4.0