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Description
Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis, also known as the Bear’s Paw Plant, is a succulent plant belonging to the family Crassulaceae. Endemic to South Africa, this plant is prized for its unique appearance and ease of care. Its leaves are covered in fine hairs that resemble the paws of a bear, hence its common name. The plant produces small, yellow flowers on tall stalks that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Cotyledon |
Appearance
Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis typically grows to a height of 15-30cm and has a spread of around 30cm. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, with a velvety texture and a silvery-grey color. The leaves are arranged in a rosette formation, with each leaf measuring around 5cm in length and 3cm in width. The edges of the leaves are lined with small teeth, and the entire leaf is covered in fine, white hairs that resemble the fur of a bear’s paw. The plant produces small, yellow flowers on tall stalks that grow up to 50cm in height.
Care Guide
Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here are some important care tips:
Water: This plant prefers to be kept on the dry side, so only water it when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be sure to use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.
Fertilization: This plant does not require regular fertilization. You can feed it with a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season if you wish.
Soil: Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis prefers well-draining soil. A mixture of cactus soil and perlite works well.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation, isolate the plant and treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis is native to the Western Cape of South Africa, where it grows in rocky outcrops and dry, arid regions. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: Can I grow Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light.
Q: Will this plant tolerate frost?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the genus Cotyledon:
- Cotyledon Orbiculata
- Cotyledon Undulata
- Cotyledon Ladismithiensis
- Cotyledon Barbadensis
References
- “Cotyledon Tomentosa.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/cotyledon-tomentosa-bears-paw/. Accessed 24 June 2021.
- “Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis.” Mountain Crest Gardens, https://mountaincrestgardens.com/cotyledon-tomentosa-s-ladismithiensis/. Accessed 24 June 2021.
- “Cotyledon Tomentosa Subsp. Ladismithiensis.” The Succulent Eclectic, https://thesucculenteclectic.com/cotyledon-tomentosa-subsp-ladismithiensis/. Accessed 24 June 2021.
