Light Requirements: Prefers bright, direct sunlight and thrives in full sun conditions. Indoors, place it in a south- or west-facing window to maintain its compact shape and encourage blooming.
Watering Needs: Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is semi-dormant. Overwatering is a common cause of failure—always ensure the plant dries out fully between waterings.
Soil Preference: Requires a very well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Add extra pumice, perlite, or coarse sand to increase aeration and prevent water retention.
How to Fertilize: Fertilize during the active growing season (spring through early fall) using a diluted cactus fertilizer once a month. Do not fertilize during the winter dormancy period.
Hardiness Zone: Suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 9–11. Protect from frost; it can be grown outdoors in warm, dry climates or kept in containers that can be brought indoors.
Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to grow around pets, though its spiny-looking leaf edges may discourage curious nibblers.
Additional Care Tips: Tiger’s Jaw may bloom with daisy-like yellow flowers in fall or early winter when kept in ideal conditions. Its thick, toothed leaves store water and give it a striking appearance. Avoid handling excessively to prevent leaf damage. Propagate by division or stem cuttings, allowing cut surfaces to callous before replanting.