The Faucaria tigrina variegata, commonly known as the Variegated Tiger Jaws succulent, is native to the arid regions of South Africa. Its most distinctive feature is the thick, triangular leaves arranged in opposing pairs that form a jaw-like rosette. Along the edges of these fleshy leaves are soft, harmless, white protrusions that resemble teeth, giving the plant its common name. The variegated form is prized for its creamy-white or pale-yellow stripes that contrast with the green tissue, adding a unique, marbled texture to the rosette.
Creating the Optimal Growing Environment
Cultivation begins with providing intense, consistent light to maintain the plant’s compact form and vibrant coloration. Because the white areas of the leaves lack chlorophyll, the plant requires higher light levels than its non-variegated counterpart. Placing the plant near a south-facing window indoors or providing bright morning sun outdoors is ideal for healthy growth. However, the Variegated Tiger Jaws is susceptible to scorching from harsh afternoon sun, especially during summer, and may need filtered shade during the hottest part of the day.
Maintaining the correct temperature range is important. Faucaria tigrina variegata prefers warm temperatures, thriving between 65–85°F (18–29°C) during its active growing seasons. It is not tolerant of hard frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures, though it can withstand brief drops to about 25°F (-4°C) if the soil is kept completely dry. Growing the plant in a container allows for easy movement indoors when nighttime temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C), ensuring it remains safely above its cold tolerance limit.
The correct substrate is essential for preventing root rot. This succulent requires an extremely well-draining, gritty soil mix. A commercial cactus and succulent potting mix should be amended generously with inorganic materials to increase porosity and drainage. Mixing the potting soil with components like coarse sand, pumice, or perlite at a ratio of 50-75% gritty amendment ensures water passes quickly through the container. Using a container with a large drainage hole further supports the necessary quick-drying conditions for the root system.
Routine Care: Watering, Feeding, and Dormancy
The watering regimen must align with the plant’s natural growth cycle, as Faucaria tigrina is a winter-active succulent. The primary growing season occurs during the cooler months of fall and winter, which is when the plant should receive moderate watering. During this active period, use the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly saturate the soil and allow it to dry completely before the next application. Avoid getting water trapped in the tight leaf cluster at the crown, as this can encourage rot.
The warmer summer months trigger a period of dormancy. Watering must be significantly reduced, or even stopped entirely, during this dormant phase to prevent the roots from rotting in consistently moist soil. If the leaves begin to shrivel or wrinkle, a small amount of water can be provided to prevent desiccation, but the goal is to keep the plant dry to signal the resting period. When in doubt, it is safer to withhold water for an extra week, as overwatering is the single greatest threat to this species.
Fertilization requirements are minimal and should only be met during the active growing season. Succulents do not require heavy feeding, and too much fertilizer can lead to weak, soft, or uncharacteristic growth. A balanced or low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength, can be applied once or twice during the fall and winter. Fertilization must cease during the summer dormancy to allow the plant to rest properly.
Propagation and Troubleshooting
Multiplying the Faucaria tigrina variegata is achieved through the division of offsets, also known as pups, which the plant naturally produces around its base. These small rosettes often possess their own root systems and should be gently separated from the mother plant. After division, the offsets should be allowed to air-dry in a shady spot for a few days until the cut surface forms a protective, dry callus. The calloused pup can then be planted in the recommended gritty soil mix, where it will root and establish itself.
Propagation from leaf cuttings is possible, but it is less reliable for maintaining the variegation, as the resulting plant may revert to the all-green form.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues that may arise include:
- Root rot, indicated by mushy, discolored leaves, is corrected by immediately stopping water, unpotting the plant, and removing any infected, soft tissue.
- Etiolation, or stretching, manifests as pale, elongated leaves and occurs when light is insufficient, requiring a move to a brighter location.
- Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can be managed by applying a targeted insecticide or a diluted solution of insecticidal soap.
- Reversion to the all-green form, which is a risk when propagating from leaf cuttings.