There’s something undeniably adorable about fuzzy succulents. These plump plants with their caterpillar-like texture and shape have a unique appeal that instantly adds charm to any space. Even in the midst of a harsh winter, they remind me of a warm summer day. Personally, my favorite is the ‘panda plant.’
If you want to add a touch of creativity to your home or garden, consider growing fuzzy succulents. These beautiful, fluffy plants thrive in some of the harshest environments in the world, making them even more fascinating.
Fuzzy succulents are loved by both adults and kids alike. Running your fingers through their hair-like leaves is almost a surreal experience. In this article, I’ll share my research and experience with a variety of fuzzy succulents, and hopefully inspire you to grow them too.
Why Are Some Succulents Fuzzy?
Some succulents have developed a layer of fine hairs, called trichomes, to protect themselves from extreme light. These hairs act as a shield, guarding against the sun’s rays, moisture loss, pathogens, and drought.
The hairs provide shade to the plant, similar to an umbrella or hat on a sunny day. They also have a cooling effect, helping the succulent survive in harsh conditions. If you notice long white hairs on a succulent, it’s a sign that the plant is in a particularly harsh environment and may need to be moved to a shadier spot indoors.
11 Fuzzy Succulents to Add to Your Collection
Fuzzy succulents come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, with hundreds of options to choose from. Here are some of the best fuzzy succulents you can grow at home:
1. Kalanchoe Tomentosa ‘Panda Plant’
Originating from the mystical island of Madagascar, the Kalanchoe Tomentosa, also known as the ‘Panda Plant,’ is a popular choice. Its fuzzy leaves with brown edges and adorable coloring make it a hit, especially among children. The name “Tomentosa” loosely translates to “densely wooly,” acknowledging its fur-like texture. In its natural habitat, it can reach up to three feet in height, but when grown indoors, it typically stays within the size of its pot.
2. Echeveria ‘Doris Taylor’
Echeveria ‘Doris Taylor’ is a stunning low-maintenance fuzzy succulent, perfect for beginner gardeners. This unique plant, a cross between Echeveria pulvinata and Echeveria setosa, boasts silver hairs covering pale blue-green leaves. When exposed to bright light, the tips of the leaves turn a vibrant red color, giving it the nickname “Woolly Rose.” In the spring, it produces magnificent yellow flowers with red shading. Remember to remove any rotting leaves from the base to prevent the spread of decay.
3. Cotyledon Tomentosa ‘Bear’s Paw’
Named for its red-toothed edges resembling a bear’s claw, the Cotyledon Tomentosa, or ‘Bear’s Paw,’ adds a velvety touch to any living space. This fragile succulent thrives in at least six hours of sunlight per day. During spring, it produces large bell-shaped orange flowers that can reach up to 12 inches in height. It’s important to note that the Bear’s Paw is sensitive to cold temperatures and may not survive below 30°F (-1°C).
4. Crassula Mesembryanthemoides ‘Tenelli’
Hailing from South Africa, the Crassula Mesembryanthemoides, also known as ‘Tenelli,’ features distinctive teardrop-shaped leaves covered in white hairs. As the plant ages, these leaves turn a reddish-brown color. Expect your Tenelli to reach a height of 12 inches. For optimal growth, place this succulent in a south-facing window if growing indoors.
5. Kalanchoe Beharensis ‘Felt Bush’
Originating from Madagascar, the Kalanchoe Beharensis, or ‘Felt Bush,’ is a statuesque addition to any garden. Its large triangular-shaped leaves with long stems are covered in brownish hairs. Mature plants produce small urn-shaped flowers with a yellowish-green color. The leaves turn bronze with a light-gray tone on the undersides as they mature.
6. Echeveria Setosa
Echeveria Setosa, also known as the Mexican firecracker, is a popular houseplant with a variety of options to choose from. This white hair-covered succulent is easy to maintain and grow. It reaches a maximum height of 12 inches and produces beautiful yellow and red urn-shaped flowers in the summer. Its rosettes are only 3 cm in width, making it a great space-saving option.
7. Echeveria ‘Pulv-Oliver’ (Red Echeveria)
Echeveria ‘Pulv-Oliver,’ also known as Red Echeveria, is an attractive succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae family. This hybrid succulent, a cross between Echeveria Pulvinata and Echeveria Harmsii, produces magnificent orange-yellow flowers when blooming. Its light-green leaves with red tips covered in white hairs create a beautiful plant that will thrive in any setting. It can reach a height of 1 foot and a leaf diameter of approximately 1 foot.
8. Senecio Haworthii ‘Cocoon Plant’ (Wooly Senecio)
The rare Senecio Haworthii, also known as the ‘Cocoon Plant,’ features cocoon-shaped white leaves that are fascinating to observe. Small shrubs covered in white hairs grow from the wooden stems. Senecio Haworthii can reach a height of approximately 1 foot and a width of 2 feet. This succulent was first mentioned by English botanist Adrian Hardy Haworth in 1803 and is native to southern Africa.
9. Kalanchoe Beharensis (Elephant Ear)
Originating in Madagascar, the Kalanchoe Beharensis, also known as ‘Elephant Ear,’ is a perfect choice for beginners. This succulent, with large fleshy leaves covered in brown hairs, provides a soft feel and adds an interesting texture to your collection. It reaches an average height of 18-30 inches in a home setting, but can grow up to nearly 10 feet in its natural habitat. It thrives in a mix of sunshine and shade.
10. Delosperma Echinatum (Pickle Plant)
The Pickle Plant is another succulent with fuzzy leaves. Its spine-like hairs may look intimidating, but they are surprisingly soft to the touch. Delosperma Echinatum maintains its bright green color throughout the year. Each stem can reach up to 18 inches and features wide, fleshy leaves up to 1 inch long. This plant blooms with yellow and white flowers from late winter to fall, with the peak time being in spring.
11. Sempervivum (Dream Catcher)
Sempervivum, also known as ‘Dream Catcher,’ is a fascinating succulent that earns its name from its ever-changing colors throughout the year. In hotter months, it displays reddish to burgundy leaves, while in winter, the leaves turn dark green with hints of purple. Commonly referred to as hens and chicks, this succulent dies out after flowering but is quickly replaced by younger parts of the plant. It grows to an average height of 8 inches and is native to North America.
Care Tips for Fuzzy Succulents
Fuzzy succulents require some special care to thrive, whether you’re growing them outdoors or indoors. Here are some essential tips for looking after your fuzzy succulents:
Don’t Water the Leaves
Watering the leaves of a fuzzy succulent can cause them to rot. The droplets of water act as small magnifying glasses, potentially burning the hairs in hot environments. Rainwater is the best option for watering, as it doesn’t contain any minerals that may build up on the leaves.
Water the Soil Only When Dry
Overwatering is a common cause of succulent death. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering your fuzzy succulents. It’s best to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Provide Optimal Conditions
Fuzzy succulents love warm temperatures and thrive in a range of 60-80°F (15-26.6°C). Some types can tolerate temperatures up to 90°F (32.2°C). Ensure your succulents receive plenty of light, as it is crucial for their overall health and growth.
Start Your Fuzzy Succulent Collection Today
Fuzzy succulents bring delight and warmth to any gardener’s heart. With their wide variety of options, you’re sure to find a fuzzy succulent that suits your style and adds a unique touch to your home or garden. Running your fingers through their hairy leaves and stems is an amazing sensory experience. Plus, with names like Pickle Plant, Elephant’s Ear, and Bear’s Paw, they add a fun and whimsical element to your collection. So, go ahead and get yourself a fuzzy succulent or two and enjoy the cozy vibe they bring to your life.
