Teddy Bear Vine (Cyanotis somaliensis)

Teddy Bear Vine

Cyanotis somaliensis

Fuzzy silver leaves hug trailing stems like tiny plush paws. Trailing succulent foliage plant; common name: Teddy Bear Vine.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade; avoid intense direct sun that can scorch fuzzy leaves
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Watering Allow top 2-3 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent cold damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, ovate leaves covered in dense silver trichomes, giving a fuzzy, velvet-like texture; arranged oppositely along stems
  • Flower: Tiny, star-shaped lavender to blue flowers with yellow stamens; borne in small clusters at leaf axils
  • Stem: Slender, trailing, green to reddish-brown stems that root at nodes when in contact with moist soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil lightly moist but not soggy; water when top layer dries

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Suspend fertilization during autumn and winter dormancy

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent mold growth
Pruning
  • Trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain compact habit
  • Remove dead or yellowed leaves to keep the plant tidy and reduce pest risk
  • Pinch back stem tips regularly during growing season to promote branching
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxic effects to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental trailing plant for hanging baskets, terrariums, or ground cover