Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Teddy Bear'

Morphological Characteristics

Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Teddy Bear’ is a charming cultivar of the Kalanchoe tomentosa species, part of the Crassulaceae family. Native to Madagascar, this succulent is beloved for its plush, velvety appearance—hence the affectionate name “Teddy Bear.”

This plant forms upright, branching stems covered in soft, fuzzy, cinnamon-brown hairs, giving it a teddy bear-like texture. The leaves are thick, oblong to paddle-shaped, and densely covered in fine white to brownish hairs. Leaf edges are often tinged or dotted with dark brown to rust-colored margins, adding visual contrast.

Each stem can reach 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) in height in containers, slowly developing into a shrubby form. Flowers are rare in indoor cultivation, but when they do occur, they are small, tubular, and yellow-green, appearing in loose clusters on tall stalks.

Growth Habits

‘Teddy Bear’ grows upright and slowly, eventually forming compact shrubs with multiple fuzzy stems. It’s well-suited for windowsills, decorative planters, and small succulent gardens. Though not a fast spreader, it can be shaped by pruning or allowed to fill a pot naturally over time.

Maintenance Points

• Lighting: Prefers bright, indirect light to partial sun. Too much direct sunlight may cause leaf scorch; too little may result in legginess. Indoors, place near a south- or east-facing window.

• Watering: Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering to once every 3–4 weeks.

• Soil: Requires a well-draining succulent mix. Adding coarse sand, perlite, or pumice helps prevent root rot.

• Temperature: Best kept in temperatures between 18–27°C (65–80°F). Can tolerate light frost if dry but should be protected from temperatures below 4°C (40°F).

• Fertilization: Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted succulent fertilizer. No feeding necessary in winter.

• Potting: Use pots with drainage holes. Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Spring is the best time for repotting.

• Humidity: Prefers low humidity. Avoid misting to prevent fungal issues, especially on the fuzzy leaves.

Reproduction Method

1. Stem Cuttings:

• Cutting: Use a clean knife to cut a healthy stem segment.

• Callusing: Allow the cutting to dry for 3–5 days until the end is callused.

• Planting: Insert into well-draining soil. Water lightly after rooting starts (usually within 1–2 weeks).

2. Leaf Cuttings:

• Can also be propagated from full, healthy leaves. Allow leaves to callus, then place on dry soil surface until roots and shoots form.

3. Offsets:

• Occasionally produces basal offsets that can be separated and replanted.

Additional Tips

• Pest Control: Susceptible to mealybugs and aphids. Inspect fuzzy leaves regularly and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Disease Prevention: Avoid water sitting on leaves. Always water at the base.

• Pruning: Prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Use clean tools to avoid infection.

• Display: Works well in cozy-themed arrangements, animal-shaped pots, or rustic-style containers to complement its name and fuzzy look.

• Safety Note: Non-toxic to humans but may be mildly irritating to pets if ingested. Handle gently to avoid damaging delicate leaf hairs.

With its adorable fuzzy texture, warm brown tones, and easy care needs, Kalanchoe tomentosa ‘Teddy Bear’ is a cozy and whimsical addition to any succulent collection—perfect for indoor décor, gifts, or collectors seeking something soft and unique.