Troubleshooting
Bear Paw problems — and how to fix them
Bear Paw (Cotyledon tomentosa) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root rot from overwatering
The most common killer. Soggy soil turns leaves and stems soft, mushy and translucent. Use gritty mix, a pot with drainage, and let soil dry fully between waterings — especially in winter.
Etiolation (stretching)
In low light the stems elongate, leaves space out, and growth becomes pale and floppy. Move to a brighter spot with 6+ hours of light to keep the rosettes compact.
Leaf drop
The plump leaves are fragile and detach easily from rough handling, repotting, or overwatering stress. Handle gently and water carefully; dropped leaves rarely re-root well.
Pests (mealybugs, spider mites, scale)
Look for waxy white clusters at leaf bases and stem joints (mealybugs), fine webbing (spider mites), or hard bumps (scale). Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab or insecticidal soap/neem.
Sunburn
Sudden intense or midday direct sun can scorch the fuzzy leaf tips, leaving brown or bleached patches. Acclimatise gradually and provide light shade during the hottest part of the day.
Fungal disease in humid heat
Warm, humid, poorly ventilated conditions promote fungal spotting and rot. Improve airflow, avoid wetting the foliage, and keep the plant on the dry side.
Prevent bear paw problems before they start
Most bear paw issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Bear Paw problems — FAQ
Why is my bear paw root rot from overwatering?
The most common killer. Soggy soil turns leaves and stems soft, mushy and translucent. Use gritty mix, a pot with drainage, and let soil dry fully between waterings — especially in winter.
Why is my bear paw etiolation (stretching)?
In low light the stems elongate, leaves space out, and growth becomes pale and floppy. Move to a brighter spot with 6+ hours of light to keep the rosettes compact.
Why is my bear paw leaf drop?
The plump leaves are fragile and detach easily from rough handling, repotting, or overwatering stress. Handle gently and water carefully; dropped leaves rarely re-root well.
Why is my bear paw pests (mealybugs, spider mites, scale)?
Look for waxy white clusters at leaf bases and stem joints (mealybugs), fine webbing (spider mites), or hard bumps (scale). Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab or insecticidal soap/neem.
Why is my bear paw sunburn?
Sudden intense or midday direct sun can scorch the fuzzy leaf tips, leaving brown or bleached patches. Acclimatise gradually and provide light shade during the hottest part of the day.
Why is my bear paw fungal disease in humid heat?
Warm, humid, poorly ventilated conditions promote fungal spotting and rot. Improve airflow, avoid wetting the foliage, and keep the plant on the dry side.