The Tiger’s Jaw succulent, Faucaria tigrina, is a captivating plant known for its distinctive appearance. Native to South Africa’s Eastern Cape, this succulent is popular due to its unique, jaw-like foliage. Its intriguing form makes it a fascinating addition to any succulent collection, resembling an animal’s open mouth.
Characteristics and Appearance
The Tiger’s Jaw succulent displays thick, triangular, gray-green leaves in a rosette formation. Soft, white, tooth-like structures along their margins give the plant its common name, resembling an animal’s open jaw. Leaves can develop a reddish-purple hue with ample sunlight. This clumping perennial grows 4 to 6 inches tall and spreads similarly.
During fall, and sometimes early winter, the plant produces vibrant, daisy-like yellow flowers, often 2 inches across. These striking blooms emerge from the rosette’s center, opening in the afternoon sun and closing in the evening or on cloudy days.
Growing and Care Guide
Light
Tiger’s Jaw succulents thrive in bright light, ideally receiving at least three to six hours of direct sunlight daily. Replicating their native abundant sunlight promotes healthy growth and vibrant coloration. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes leggy, losing its compact form.
Watering
Watering Tiger’s Jaw requires a “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot and mushy leaves. During the plant’s semi-dormant phase in fall and winter, watering should be significantly reduced.
Soil
A well-draining soil mix is essential for Tiger’s Jaw succulents to prevent water from accumulating around its roots and causing rot. A commercial cactus or succulent potting mix is suitable, or you can create your own by incorporating perlite, coarse sand, or grit to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
Tiger’s Jaw succulents prefer moderate temperatures, ideally ranging from 65°F to 80°F during the day. They can tolerate somewhat higher temperatures, up to 90°F, during summer. They are not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing conditions, ideally brought indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F. This succulent thrives in arid conditions and requires low humidity, ideally below 40%. High humidity can lead to fungal issues and rot.
Fertilizing
Tiger’s Jaw succulents do not require heavy feeding. During their active growing season in spring and summer, apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Dilute to half or a quarter of the recommended strength and apply sparingly, every 4-6 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter months when the plant enters its semi-dormant phase.
Propagating Tiger’s Jaw Succulents
Propagating Tiger’s Jaw succulents is primarily done through offsets or stem cuttings. Offsets, also known as pups, often sprout around the base of the parent plant. To propagate, gently remove these offsets, ensuring any attached roots remain intact.
Allow the removed offsets or stem cuttings to air dry for one to two days until the cut surface forms a callus. Once callused, plant them in a well-draining cactus or succulent mix, burying them partially. Water sparingly until roots establish and new growth appears, then gradually introduce them to brighter light. While seed propagation is possible, it is a slower process and less common for home growers.
Common Issues and Solutions
Overwatering is a frequent problem for Tiger’s Jaw succulents, often leading to root rot and soft, mushy leaves. This occurs because the plant is adapted to dry conditions and stores water in its leaves. To resolve this, ensure the soil dries completely between waterings and use a well-draining potting mix.
Conversely, underwatering can cause the leaves to shrivel or wrinkle. If you observe these signs, provide a thorough watering. The plant should plump up within a day or two.
Tiger’s Jaw succulents are generally resistant to pests, but they can occasionally be affected by common succulent pests such as mealybugs or spider mites. Regularly inspecting your plant helps in early detection. If pests are present, they can often be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.