This wonderful succulent, Faucaria tigrina, which is commonly known as Tiger's Jaws (in fact, the Faucaria is Latin for "jaws") due to the teeth-like structure on the leaves, is a native of South Africa and an opportunistic grower. This plant is compact, usually staying under 6 inches in diameter, grow indoors or out in zones 9-11.
Family: Aizoaceae
Hardiness: Zones 9-11. Elsewhere grow as a windowsill house plant.
Blooms: Yellow, late summer to mid fall. Will only bloom when mature and in full sunlight. The flowers open in the early afternoon and close when it becomes dark.
Light: Bright light is best, which will make the leaves stay their greenest and encourage blooming. They can tolerate lower light conditions.
Temperature: Optimal temperatures are 50ºF - 75ºF (10ºC - 24ºC), and should not reach below 40ºF. In extreme temperatures, make sure there is some shade.
Water: During the summer months be sure to let the soil dry out before rewatering, keeping to a cycle of about every 1 1/2 - 2 weeks. During the winter they can be watered less often, about every 2-3 weeks. Water more frequently in extreme temperatures.
Fertilizing: Fertilizing this plant really isn't needed as it's already a voracious grower. However, a liquid 10-10-10 diluted to half strength or a cactus fertilizer once a month during spring and summer can benefit the plant.
Repotting: Make sure to repot during its more active period, starting in spring. The soil should be well draining, mixing in some sterilized sand and/or pebbles to help promote drainage.
Propagation:Offsets that form at the base are the easiest way to propagate tiger's jaws, but leaf and are also options.
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Proper name: Faucaria tigrina
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Loves the sun
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Easy to care for
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Makes a great gift
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Immediate shipping