The Story
Plant Bio
Succulent perennial with thick, fleshy leaves and a bushy habit.
Known for its unique fuzzy leaves and attractive clusters of orange tubular flowers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly once roots develop in 2-4 weeks.
- Ensure cactus receives plenty of sunlight, about 6 hours daily.
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between watering.
- Apply cactus-specific fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Transplant to larger pots when roots outgrow current container in 6-12 months.
Pro Tip
Use a gritty, sandy soil mix to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering 💧
- Use well-draining soil to prevent overwatering
- Apply cactus fertilizer monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not expose to frost or freezing temperatures
- Avoid using heavy, clay soils that retain moisture
- Do not keep in low light or shade
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bear's Paw questions
What zones can Bear's Paw grow in?
Bear's Paw is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bear's Paw deer resistant?
Yes — Bear's Paw is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bear's Paw bloom?
Bear's Paw typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bear's Paw need full sun?
Bear's Paw does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Bear's Paw drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bear's Paw handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Cotyledon to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bear's Paw with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.