The Tiger Jaws succulent (Faucaria tigrina) is known for its distinctive appearance. This succulent forms low-growing rosettes of fleshy, triangular leaves. Its common name comes from the soft, white, tooth-like serrations along the leaf margins, resembling an animal’s jaw. Native to South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Faucaria tigrina thrives in dry, rocky conditions. It is a popular choice due to its unique look and relatively straightforward care.
Tiger Jaws Succulent Care
Light
Tiger Jaws succulents require ample bright light. They prefer at least three to six hours of direct sunlight daily. Provide a south-facing window indoors or a sunny outdoor location during warmer months. Insufficient light can cause leggy growth and may reduce flowering.
Watering
Water using a “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot. During the growing season (spring through fall), water when the soil is dry to the touch. In dormant winter months, significantly reduce watering to about once a month, as excessive moisture in cooler temperatures can cause rot.
Soil
Tiger Jaws succulents need a highly porous, well-draining soil mix to prevent water accumulation. A commercial cactus or succulent potting mix works well. Enhance drainage by adding perlite, coarse sand, pumice, or gravel, mimicking their natural rocky habitat.
Temperature and Humidity
These succulents prefer warmer temperatures, between 70°F and 90°F (21°C and 32°C) during their active growing period. They are not frost-tolerant and require protection from freezing conditions. Bring them indoors when temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C). Tiger Jaws succulents thrive in low humidity environments.
Fertilizing
Tiger Jaws succulents have minimal fertilization needs. During their active growing period (spring through fall), apply a diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid over-fertilization, and refrain from feeding during winter dormancy.
Potting
Select pots with adequate drainage holes. Terracotta pots are recommended due to their porous nature, which allows for better airflow and moisture evaporation. Since these plants have small root systems, they can grow successfully in shallow containers. Repotting is typically needed every two to three years as the plant grows or to refresh the soil.
Propagating Tiger Jaws Succulent
Propagating Tiger Jaws succulents is straightforward, usually done by separating offsets or using stem cuttings. Offsets, small plantlets growing at the parent plant’s base, are the easiest method. Carefully remove an offset from the main plant. After removal, allow the cut surface to dry and form a callus for one to two days to prevent rot.
Once callused, plant the offset in a lightly moist, well-draining succulent or sandy potting mix. Place the newly potted offset in a warm area with bright, indirect light for the first few weeks. Water sparingly until roots develop and the plant shows active growth. Seed propagation is also possible, though less common due to their slow growth and requiring consistent temperatures.
Common Problems and Solutions
If leaves become soft or discolored due to overwatering, reduce watering immediately and ensure the soil dries out completely before the next watering. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel or wrinkle, indicating the plant needs water.
Etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes leggy, results from insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location helps restore its compact form. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids can occasionally infest Tiger Jaws. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Unique Features and Flowering
The most striking feature of the Tiger Jaws succulent is its distinctive foliage. Thick, triangular leaves are adorned with soft, white, spine-like structures along their edges, creating the appearance of an open, toothed jaw. These “teeth” are harmless and contribute to the plant’s unique aesthetic.
During the fall, and sometimes extending into early winter, Faucaria tigrina produces vibrant, daisy-like yellow flowers. These blooms typically open in the afternoon sun and close in the evening or on cloudy days. While flowering is more common outdoors, providing ample sunlight can encourage blooms even when grown indoors.