10 Types of Fuzzy Succulents

Succulents come in various shapes, colors, sizes, and textures and have adapted to their native environment by storing water in their leaves, stems, and roots. But some succulents have an even more interesting adaptation. They have tiny hairs all over their leaves, giving them a soft, cuddly appearance. These fuzzy succulents sometimes appear to be somewhere between plants and an animal. The fuzziness is not just aesthetically pleasing but also serves an important purpose, which we will discuss below. Here are some of the top-rated types of fuzzy succulents.

1. Kalanchoe tomentosa — Silver Panda

The Silver Panda is a popular fuzzy succulent with upright leaves shaped like long ears, covered in velvety silver hairs with dark chocolate markings along the margins. There are several other fuzzy varieties of this plant, such as Chocolate Soldier, Cinnamon, Black Tie, and Teddy Bear. All Kalanchoe tomentosas can be propagated by cuttings the stems. The plant prefers part sun to bright indirect light. They should be brought indoors over the winter as they are only hardy to zone 10 (30° F).

2. Echeveria setosa — Mexican Firecracker

This plant has a unique, furry texture due to its hairy leaves, which are also designed to collect dew from the air. The plant doesn’t grow very large, with a maximum size of 4 inches wide and 3 inches high. This type of succulent can be easily propagated from its leaves and does best in partially sunny or shaded areas. The plant should be protected from the cold during winter.

3. Sedum dasyphyllum — Fuzzy Wuzzy

The Fuzzy Wuzzy plant is a fuzzy succulent that forms compact rosettes covered in fine, soft hairs. When planted in a pot, it creates a cascading effect and can be used as a shrub in mini gardens. This plant grows to 3-4 inches and can be propagated through division, stem cuttings, and leaves. It prefers full sun and is hardy to zone 8B (15° F). Those living in colder climates should take extra precautions to protect this succulent during winter.

4. Senecio haworthii — Cocoon Plant

Senecio haworthii, is a type of fuzzy succulent with white, fuzzy leaves resembling clusters of cocoons. It reaches around 9-12 inches high, and its striking color makes it great for gardens or mixed arrangements. It can be grown from stem cuttings or propagating and prefers full sun to bright light indoors. Although it cannot tolerate temperatures below zone 10 (30°F), it must be brought indoors in cold weather.

5. Cotyledon tomentosa — Bear Paw

Cotyledon tomentosa, commonly known as bear paw, is an irresistibly delightful fuzzy succulent. Its leaves resemble the paws of a bear, with round, plump shapes and small pink to brown points. The name means “covered in hairs.” The leaves are delicate and can come off easily, which makes them a great candidate for propagation with leaf or stem cuttings. Growing up to 6-8 inches high, this plant enjoys bright indoor light or filtered light outdoors but should be brought inside during winter. This plant thrives in zone 10.

6. Echeveria pulvinata — Ruby

The Echeveria pulvinata produces rosettes of green leaves with striking red edges. Its velvety trichomes give it a silvery appearance and the nickname chenille plant. This species has the ability to develop woody branches, growing up to 9-12 inches high. Propagation is done by cutting stems and individual leaves. This succulent enjoys full to partial sunlight and is hardy to zone 10 but must be protected from freezing temperatures below 30° F.

7. Kalanchoe orgyalis — Copper Spoons

Kalanchoe orgyalis is a striking type of fuzzy succulent with velvety leaves that are a deep cinnamon color on top and a silver color underneath. It usually grows to 12 inches high and adds texture to any arrangement. You can propagate Copper Spoons by cutting individual leaves or whole stems. It can be placed in partial or bright sun but thrives exposed to filtered light. Unfortunately, Copper Spoons is only hardy in zone 10 (30° F) and must be protected from freezing temperatures during the winter.

8. Crassula congesta — Green Beans

This plant is a common type of fuzzy succulent that makes a great addition to any collection. These plants typically reach 6-8 inches in height and have clusters of round and flat pudgy leaves covered in fine, fuzzy hairs, which give them a “frosted” look. They do look a lot like a fuzzy green bean! They can be easily propagated via stem cuttings or individual leaf cutting. Crassula congesta grows best in partial or filtered sunlight and should be brought indoors for the winter. It can only survive in areas with temperatures no lower than 30°F (zone 10).

9. Cyanotis somaliensis — Pussy Ears

This plant, also called kitten ears or furry kittens, is a distinctive and downy type of succulent. It grows between 1 and 2 feet tall and has trailing stems that make it look great in a window basket. This species is related to Tradescantia and produces showy violet blossoms. Propagation is best done via stem cuttings. It should be given plenty of filtered sunlight or bright indoor light. It thrives in zone 10 (30° F) and should be protected from cold climates.

10. Delosperma echinatum — Pickle Plant

This plant, more commonly known as the pickle plant, is a fuzzy succulent native to South Africa. Its leaves have a spiny look to them and an interesting texture. This plant can be easily grown to approximately 6-8 inches. It is ideal for rock gardens and looks great, tumbling over the edge of containers. Propagation can be done through stem cuttings. The pickle plant prefers partial sun to filtered light or bright light indoors. This plant can only withstand temperatures up to 30°F, so it must be brought inside during the winter.

Why Are They Fuzzy?

Most succulents come from areas that have little shade and a lot of sun. To survive, some of them develop leaf windows that enable them to grow underground. Additionally, many of them adopt different colors to protect themselves from sunburn. For further protection, some develop farina or epicuticular wax, similar to sunscreen, which shields them from the heat. Fuzzy succulents have furry leaves to help protect the plant from burning or drying out.

The leaves of fuzzy succulents have slender “hairs” called trichomes, which range from a barely visible velvety covering to long hairs. These trichomes help protect the leaves from overheating and water loss in high-heat environments. Additionally, the hairs manage airflow, reducing moisture loss from the wind. Lastly, fuzzy succulent leaves are less appealing to herbivores and insects, who don’t like to feed on furry foliage.

Fuzzy Succulent Care

Using the right soil type is important when taking care of a fuzzy succulent. Cacti need fast-draining soil with good aeration and drainage. When watering your plant, ensure to water thoroughly but infrequently and only when the soil feels dry. Ensure to water the soil directly and not get any on the leaves, as this can cause rot in some succulents. You should also test for moisture before watering by sticking your finger into the top inch or two of the potting mix. If it’s still damp, wait another day or two before watering again. Lastly, make sure that your plant gets enough light. Give it a nice bright spot where it can thrive.

Summary of 10 Types of Fuzzy Succulents

Here’s a recap of 10 types of fuzzy succulents that we took a look at.

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