Tiger jaws care guide
Faucaria tigrina
Also known as: Faucaria, Shark jaws
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Tiger jaws
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 20 days
- Close to a winter grower: water when the soil dries in spring, taper from May, and in summer just moisten it lightly every two to three weeks in the evening, as a guide.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- From late September it grows and bears yellow flowers: water well whenever the soil dries, as a guide.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 20 days
- Still growing but slow to dry in the cold, so water about every two to three weeks on a warm morning, as a guide.
Light and placement for Tiger jaws
From fall to spring, a sunny, airy spot as a guide, since low light opens and stretches the leaves; in summer, bright rain-free partial shade with good airflow, and the balance varies with the plant and the room.
Overwintering Tiger jaws
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Hardier than most mesembs, generally taking about 0°C when dry: on the Kanto and Kansai plains it can winter in a sunny spot under the eaves, though as a guide protect it from frost and bring it in on freezing nights.
Fertilizing and repotting Tiger jaws
Fertilizer
It needs very little: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in fall and spring, none in summer or midwinter, as too much can swell and split the leaves.
When to repot
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Tiger jaws
- Watered in summer, it overheats and rots at the base.
- Short of light the leaves grow long and loose instead of tight.
- Frozen in wet soil over winter, the plant collapses.
Tips for growing Tiger jaws
- The tooth-like edges are soft and do not hurt to touch.
- When clumps spread, divide and repot in fall to keep air moving.
- The flowers open on warm, sunny days, so keep it in the sun in fall.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
