Tiger Jaws
faucaria tigrina
Also known as: ["Tiger Jaws","Tiger's Jaws"]
Overview
A succulent species native to South Africa, known for its fleshy, toothed leaves that resemble tiger jaws.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Faucaria |
| Botanical Name: | Faucaria tigrina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct light or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year, or when dead leaves are noticeable.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove damaged or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light during peak summer; move indoors if outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of day; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks during dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and temperature.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use gritty amendments; avoid overwatering.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter, down to 50°F (10°C), but avoid frost.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; leaf cuttings are more common and reliable for Faucaria tigrina.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy leaves.
- Let them callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Keep moist and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates, especially for leaf cuttings.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root; new plants can be established in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow leaves to callus before planting; use a humidifier if air is dry; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer, just before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; best when the plant is actively growing.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution; avoid wetting leaves; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry out between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on warmth and light.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting mix to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet; prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold exposure; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure soil drains well.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in spring and summer, avoid in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFaucaria tigrina is not toxic to cats. Ingestion of the plant does not produce any known toxic effects or physiological impacts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicFaucaria tigrina is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion of the plant does not produce any known toxic effects or physiological impacts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicFaucaria tigrina is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Faucaria tigrina?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Faucaria tigrina require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which helps bring out the vibrant color of its leaves.
Q: Can Faucaria tigrina be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation as long as it receives ample sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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