Tiger Jaws Faucaria tigrina
ABOUT
The common name of Faucaria tigrina is Tiger's Jaw. This plant is known for its unique and striking appearance, which closely resembles the open jaws of a tiger. It has fleshy, triangular-shaped leaves that grow in opposing pairs. These leaves are thick and somewhat triangular, providing a succulent storage for water. The edges of the leaves are lined with soft, tooth-like protrusions, giving them a jagged look akin to the teeth of the namesake tiger, which is particularly distinctive and contributes to its charming ferocity. The coloration of Tiger's Jaw is a deep green, and under certain conditions, the leaf tips can take on a reddish hue, which adds to the visual appeal and the predatory impression of the plant. During blooming periods, it produces daisy-like flowers that emerge from the center of the leaf clusters. These blooms are usually a vibrant yellow, adding a striking contrast against its toothed, green foliage. The flowers open in the afternoon sun and close at night, showing off their beauty mostly in the daylight hours. Overall, Tiger's Jaw captures one's attention with its textured leaves and vivid blossoms, which together create a semblance of the wild and exotic nature after which it is named.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aizoaceae
Synonyms
Tiger's Jaw, Shark's Jaws, Pebbled Tiger Jaw
Common names
Mesembryanthemum tigrinum, Faucaria tigrina subsp. tigrina, Faucaria tigrina var. tigrina.
ToxicityTo humans
Tiger jaws is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, any plant material can cause a reaction in certain individuals if they have specific sensitivities or allergies. It is always advisable to use caution and keep plants out of reach of children who may inadvertently ingest plant parts.
To pets
Tiger jaws is also generally considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. While it poses no significant risk of poisoning, it is still recommended to prevent pets from chewing or ingesting the plant as it may cause gastrointestinal upset or irritation due to the physical nature of the plant material or to a pet's individual sensitivity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Care For: Faucaria tigrina, commonly known as Tiger Jaws, is a low-maintenance succulent that is suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerant: As a succulent, it has the ability to store water in its leaves, making it highly resistant to dry conditions.
- Unique Appearance: The plant has distinct, toothy leaf margins that can add visual interest to gardens or indoor plant collections.
- Compact Size: Tiger Jaws is a small plant that fits well on windowsills, desks, and limited spaces.
- Propagation: It can easily be propagated from offsets or leaves, allowing gardeners to multiply their collection without additional costs.
- Non-Toxic: It is not known to be toxic to pets or humans, making it a safe choice for households with animals or children.
- Adaptability: Faucaria tigrina can adapt to various light conditions, although it prefers bright, indirect light.
- Flowering: It produces yellow daisy-like flowers in the fall, which can be a delightful addition when most other plants are not in bloom.
- Longevity: With proper care, Tiger Jaws can live for many years, making it a lasting part of one's plant collection.
- Stress Indicators: The leaves can change color under stress, such as cold or drought, providing visual cues that can help in plant care.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Faucaria tigrina, commonly known as Tiger's Jaw, can be used as a thematic element in fantasy gardens that are designed to mimic dragon lairs or other mythical environments due to its fierce appearance.
- The sharp-toothed leaves of Tiger's Jaw can be used in educational settings to demonstrate plant adaptations such as how certain features can deter herbivores.
- This plant can act as a natural barrier when grown densely in small outdoor areas, as the spiky appearance can discourage pets from entering certain spaces.
- Tiger's Jaw can be used in photography and still-life painting as an intriguing and exotic subject because of its unique, textured foliage and vibrant flowers.
- The distinct appearance of Faucaria tigrina can be employed in artistic installations to represent themes of resilience and survival in harsh conditions.
- As a drought-resistant plant, Tiger's Jaw can be integrated into educational programs about water conservation and xeriscaping techniques.
- This plant's propensity to bloom in the afternoon can be used to teach the concept of photoperiodism and circadian rhythms in plants.
- Tiger's Jaw is suited for use in miniature gardening and fairy gardens to add an exotic and intriguing element that mimics large-scale flora in a tiny world.
- Due to its compact size, the plant can be utilized in space-constrained living arrangements such as tiny homes and studio apartments to bring a touch of nature indoors.
- Faucaria tigrina's soil-binding roots can be part of erosion control studies in regions where water scarcity and sandy soils are prevalent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tiger's Jaw is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tiger's Jaw is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The Tiger's Jaw plant (Faucaria tigrina) has thick, fleshy leaves that allow it to withstand long periods without water, representing the ability to endure and thrive in challenging conditions.
- Fierceness: Its leaves resemble the open jaws of a tiger, symbolizing strength, fierceness, and the capacity to assert oneself.
- Adaptability: This plant is adaptable to various growing conditions, which can be seen as a metaphor for flexibility and the ability to thrive in different environments.
WaterThe Tiger's Jaw should be watered sparingly, as it is a succulent that stores water in its leaves. During the growing season, from spring to fall, water the plant thoroughly once every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, depending on humidity levels. When watering, use approximately 8-10 ounces of water for a 5-inch pot, making sure not to let the plant sit in water as this can cause root rot.
LightTiger's Jaw thrives in bright direct or indirect light, making a south-facing window an ideal spot for this succulent. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight but be cautious of too much intense afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves. This plant appreciates as much light as possible, especially during the shorter days of winter, to maintain robust growth.
TemperatureTiger's Jaw prefers temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees if necessary. Extreme cold or frost, usually below 40 degrees, can be harmful to the plant. The ideal temperature range encourages healthy growth and flowering in this succulent.
PruningPruning Tiger's Jaw is usually not necessary as it maintains its shape well. However, you can remove dead or dying leaves to encourage new growth and improve the plant's appearance. Do this as needed throughout the year, using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to snip the unwanted foliage close to the base.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTiger's Jaw prefers a well-draining cactus mix with some added sand or perlite. The ideal soil pH for this succulent is between 6.0 and 7.5. A mixture of one part potting soil, one part coarse sand, and a handful of pumice or perlite creates an optimal growing medium.
RepottingTiger's Jaw should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Humidity & MistingTiger's Jaw thrives in low to moderate humidity conditions, typical of indoor environments. It does not require high humidity and can tolerate dry air well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Tiger's Jaw in bright, indirect light indoors and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Grow Tiger's Jaw in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade outside.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleTiger's Jaw (Faucaria tigrina) begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating successfully in well-draining soil with warm temperatures and some moisture. The seedlings grow slowly, developing fleshy, triangular leaves with marginal "teeth" that give the plant a characteristic jaw-like appearance. As a juvenile, the rosette becomes more defined, and the plant starts to establish a robust root system. Reaching maturity, Tiger's Jaw produces vivid yellow flowers in the fall that open in the afternoon sun, capable of cross or self-pollination. After pollination and seed set, the plant drops seed to propagate the next generation. Throughout its life, Tiger's Jaw exhibits periods of growth in cooler months and dormancy in extremely hot or cold seasons, adapting to its native arid environments.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: The Tiger Jaws can be propagated primarily through seed or leaf cuttings, with the most popular method being leaf cuttings. To propagate from a leaf cutting, carefully remove a leaf from the plant, ensuring that you get a clean pull without leaving any part of the leaf on the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a day to allow the cut end to callus over. Then, press the callused end into a well-draining soil mix, ideally a cactus or succulent blend. Water the cutting sparingly, just enough to moisten the soil without making it soggy. In a few weeks, the leaf should begin to take root and eventually new growth will be seen. Ensure that the environment is warm but not too hot, and that there is bright, indirect light to encourage the cuttings to grow.
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