Tiger's jaw - Faucaria tigrina (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Tiger's jaw

The “teeth” along the edge of tiger's jaw (Faucaria tigrina) are used to collect moisture. This succulent can tolerate colder temperatures than other succulents, which makes it perfect for growing outdoors in more temperate climates. This plant is native to South Africa and is also known as shark’s jaws.

Scientific classification

Species

Tiger's jaw (Faucaria tigrina)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

8 cm

Spread

Green, Purple, White, Gray, Red, Silver

Leaf Color

5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Red

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Yellow

Stem Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Tiger's jaw

Distribution of Tiger's jaw

Distribution Map

Tiger's jaw is indigenous to the arid regions of southern Africa. It thrives there due to its adaptation to dry climates. Beyond its natural habitat, tiger's jaw has been cultivated successfully in many regions around the world with compatible climates, which include semiarid zones, rockeries, and as a valued addition to succulent collections.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Albany Thicket, rocks in the shade of surrounding vegetation

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Striking tiger's jaw makes a wonderful accent in rock or succulent gardens. This unique succulent grows in clumps, so it works as a ground cover or border plant in these gardens. The daisies that grow in the autumn add extra ornamental value. You can also grow it in a small pot to decorate sunny locations, such as patios or windowsills.

Symbolism

Cruelty

Name Story

Tiger's jaw: It is a clump-forming plant that seems nearly stemless. It gets its common name, tiger's jaw from the thick but soft teeth-lined, grayish-green leaves that manifest the appearance of open jaws.

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Care Guide for Tiger's jaw

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tiger's jaw, native to arid regions, excels in drought conditions by efficiently storing water. It requires infrequent watering, ideally every 2-3 weeks. Thriving outdoors, tiger's jaw prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot, reflecting its adaptation to dry environments.

Fertilize: For tiger's jaw, use a balanced fertilizer like Succulents and Cacti Food, applied quarterly in the growing season to promote growth and flowering. Reduce frequency in winter and dilute to half strength to prevent root burn, ensuring appropriate care for tiger's jaw.

Pruning: To maintain tiger's jaw's shape, prune redundant or dense branches in spring and autumn using a knife or scissors. For propagation, cut stout stems with 5-6 leaves, treat wounds with sulfur powder, and plant after healing, lightly moistening the soil.

Propagation: Tiger's jaw propagates effectively through cuttings. Select healthy leaves and make clean cuts. Let cuttings dry slightly before planting in well-draining soil. Rooting is improved in warm, indirect light conditions, mimicking its natural arid habitat.

Repotting: Tiger's jaw is a compact succulent ideal for small containers, featuring unique tiger-stripe markings. Repot every two years in spring using a shallow pot with good drainage. After repotting, refrain from watering for one week and provide bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth.

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