Tiger Jaws (Faucaria tigrina): The Toothed Succulent That Looks Like a Predator's Mouth

Tiger Jaws, or Faucaria tigrina, is a mesmerizing small succulent from South Africa's Eastern Cape. Its common name comes from the pairs of fleshy, triangular leaves that interlock like the jaws of a tiger, complete with soft, white "teeth" along the edges.

Unique Morphology

The leaves are gray-green, often with white speckles, and form low, stemless rosettes. The marginal teeth are actually flexible, hair-like structures that help trap moisture and deter herbivores. In autumn to winter, bright yellow, daisy-like flowers emerge from the center of the rosettes, opening in the afternoon sun.

Care and Cultivation

Tiger Jaws thrive in a gritty, well-drained mix and prefer bright light with some protection from intense midday sun. Water moderately during the growing season (fall to spring) and keep nearly dry in summer dormancy. They are frost-tender and best grown as houseplants or in greenhouses in cooler climates. Their bizarre appearance makes them a conversation piece in any succulent collection.