Tiger Jaws
faucaria bosscheana
Also known as: ["Tiger Jaws"]
Overview
A succulent species native to South Africa, recognized for its fleshy, toothed leaves that resemble tiger jaws.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Faucaria |
| Botanical Name: | Faucaria bosscheana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location 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 to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; let soil dry between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter (50–60°F or 10–15°C).
Keep away from drafty windows; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem or leaf cuttings; division of offsets is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; keep soil lightly moist.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; 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
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf curling or shriveling in cold; wilting or yellowing in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C); leaves may become brittle.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stall; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFaucaria bosscheana is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to feline health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicFaucaria bosscheana is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canine health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicFaucaria bosscheana is not considered toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to human health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Faucaria bosscheana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Faucaria bosscheana require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which helps maintain its vibrant color and compact growth.
Q: Can Faucaria bosscheana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation, provided it receives ample sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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