Cotyledon tomentosa 'Bears Paw' White Variegated

Cotyledon tomentosa 'Bear's Paw' White Variegated is a variegated form of the familiar Bear's Paw, producing thick, softly hairy leaves patterned in green and cream to pale yellow or near-white. The characteristic claw-like tips develop contrasting pink, red to burgundy colouring, particularly under suitable light and seasonal conditions.

White, Cream & Green Variegation

Each fleshy leaf is densely covered with fine hairs, retaining the soft, velvety texture characteristic of Bear's Paw. The amount and distribution of variegation varies naturally, with some leaves containing broad cream or pale yellow areas while others retain considerably more green.

The coloured tips provide an additional contrast, ranging from soft pink to deeper red and burgundy. Light, temperature, season and the individual plant all influence the intensity of these colours and the appearance of the foliage.

Reduced Chlorophyll & Extra Care

The pale portions of the leaves contain substantially less chlorophyll than the green tissue and therefore have a reduced capacity for photosynthesis. For this reason, White Variegated Bear's Paw is not as vigorous or forgiving as the regular green form and requires somewhat more attentive care to maintain healthy growth.

We consider this form better suited to growers with some experience caring for succulents, particularly variegated plants. It should not be treated quite as casually as regular Bear's Paw, which we find exceptionally hardy. Pay closer attention to light, watering and nutrition, and avoid leaving the plant neglected for extended periods, particularly during active growth.

Regular liquid feeding during active growth can help support healthy development, particularly where the amount of chlorophyll is limited. In our nursery we find that consistent nutrition during active growth, together with appropriate light and watering, helps these strongly variegated plants maintain healthy, vigorous growth.

Growing White Variegated Bear's Paw

Grow in a free-draining succulent mix in a bright position with good airflow. Adequate light is important for healthy, compact growth, but the pale variegated portions of the leaves are more susceptible to sun damage than fully green foliage. Acclimatise plants gradually to stronger light and provide protection from prolonged intense Australian summer afternoon sun where necessary.

Water thoroughly when required and allow the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. Avoid keeping the root zone continuously wet, particularly during cooler conditions. Good airflow is beneficial, especially because the fine hairs covering the leaves can retain surface moisture.

Bear's Paw Family

We also grow the regular Cotyledon tomentosa 'Bear's Paw', which is considerably more forgiving and vigorous, and Cotyledon tomentosa 'Bear's Paw' Yellow Variegated, with its warmer yellow to cream variegation.

Another closely related plant is Cotyledon tomentosa subsp. ladismithiensis 'Kitten Paws', which shares the characteristic softly hairy foliage but develops a different leaf shape with fewer prominent paw-like tips.

Cotyledon tomentosa 'Bear's Paw' White Variegated plants for sale shown in 70mm pots. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images 2 onward. First image for display only. Colours and the amount and pattern of variegation will vary naturally between plants and according to time of year and growing conditions.