Tiger jaws (Faucaria felina)
Care, watering, light and tips for Tiger jaws on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Aizoaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 15 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Tiger jaws
Faucaria felina, also known as 'tiger jaws' or 'cat's paw', is a fascinating, compact succulent native to South Africa, belonging to the Aizoaceae family. Its fleshy, triangular leaves feature soft 'teeth' along the margins, giving it an appearance reminiscent of a feline's jaws. It's ideal for rock gardens, small pots in bright indoor settings, or as part of succulent arrangements, adding an exotic and textured touch.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires plenty of direct sunlight to thrive and maintain its compact form, though it appreciates some shade during the hottest summer hours. Watering should be moderate during the growing season (spring-autumn), allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and very sparse or none in winter. Use a very well-draining substrate, specifically for cacti and succulents. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which quickly leads to root rot.
How to save a dying Tiger jaws
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, or yellowing leaves; dark or soft stem base.
- First aid
- Remove from pot. Examine roots: cut off rotten ones. Let dry for 2-3 days.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter. It's a succulent!
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't advanced much into the main stem.