Aizoaceae
Tiger's Jaws: Full Sun Plant
Faucaria bosscheana
Requires several hours of direct sunlight daily, sparse and infrequent watering allowing the substrate to dry out completely, and a very well-drained mineral mix. It is highly sensitive to excess moisture at the roots.
Every 14 days
Direct sun
7° - 32°C
% - %
Categories
What is Tiger's Jaws?
Tiger's Jaws (Faucaria bosscheana) is a easy-care plant from the Aizoaceae family. Faucaria bosscheana is a compact succulent from the Aizoaceae family, native to the arid regions of South Africa (Eastern Cape). It forms low rosettes of thick, triangular, grayish-green leaves with soft, interlocking teeth along the margins that resemble the jaws of a feline, hence its common name....
Tiger's Jaws grows up to 15cm, spread of 15cm, watering every 14 days, 7°C – 32°C. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Tiger's Jaws tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Tiger's Jaws is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Tiger's Jaws?
TLDR: Tiger's Jaws needs Direct sun, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between 7-32°C with 40-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Tiger's Jaws?
Water only when the substrate is completely dry, approximately every 2 weeks in spring and summer; significantly reduce frequency in autumn and winter. Waterlogging is the most common cause of root rot.
How Much Light Does Tiger's Jaws Need?
Place the plant where it receives several hours of direct sun per day (south-facing window); without enough light, it will stretch, lose its compact shape, and fail to bloom.
What Is the Best Soil for Tiger's Jaws?
Use a fast-draining mineral substrate, such as a cactus and succulent mix (one part sand, one part pumice, and two parts sterilized soil), with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH.
What Pot Should You Use for Tiger's Jaws?
A terracotta pot with good drainage, which promotes rapid evaporation of moisture from the substrate.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Repot
Every 365 days
What Is Tiger's Jaws and Where Does It Come From?
Faucaria bosscheana is a compact succulent from the Aizoaceae family, native to the arid regions of South Africa (Eastern Cape). It forms low rosettes of thick, triangular, grayish-green leaves with soft, interlocking teeth along the margins that resemble the jaws of a feline, hence its common name. In autumn and winter, it produces solitary, bright yellow daisy-like flowers that open during the day. It is a slow-growing plant, ideal for rock gardens, pots, or succulent arrangements in very bright indoor spaces.
How Big Does Tiger's Jaws Grow?
TLDR: Tiger's Jaws can reach up to 15cm tall with Slow growth rate.
Max height
15cm
Spread
15cm
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Tiger's Jaws?
TLDR: Tiger's Jaws is susceptible to 6 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small sap-sucking pests that appear as brown, shell-like bumps on plant stems and leaves. There are over 25 species, divided into armored (hard) and unarmored (soft) scales. They feed by piercing plant tissue and extracting sap, which weakens the plant and can lead to yellowing, stunted growth, and even death if left untreated. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes sooty mold growth.
Meaning & Symbolism
In the language of succulents, Tiger's Jaws represent protection, resilience, and quiet strength: its serrated leaves evoke a guardian that thrives despite drought and neglect, a symbol of overcoming adversity with patience.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |