Mauritius Hemp
furcraea foetida
Also known as: ["Green Barbados","Wild Sisal"]
Overview
A large, evergreen succulent plant with rosettes of stiff, sword-like leaves and tall flowering stalks.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Furcraea |
| Botanical Name: | Furcraea foetida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, dry climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when leaves become unsightly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun but benefits from partial shade in intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; do not over-fertilize; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or rhizome division; rarely by seed due to slow germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent.
- Allow cut end to callous.
- Plant in moist soil.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not typically required for offsets; optional for rhizome cuttings.
Timeline
Offsets establish in 4–6 weeks; rhizome cuttings may take 2–3 months to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife; gloves; rooting medium; pots.
Quick Tips
Ensure offsets have roots before separating; use clean tools to prevent rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into the crown.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly at the base; dispose of removed leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 3–4 years; prefers slightly crowded roots.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to once a month or less in winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf burn in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or root rot in prolonged cold or frost.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or show signs of dehydration in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Furcraea foetida. The sap can also cause skin irritation in cats, particularly if they groom themselves after contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Furcraea foetida can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The sap may also cause skin irritation if it comes into contact with the animal's fur or skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFurcraea foetida contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact with the sap. The plant's leaves and sap are not highly toxic but can provoke adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Furcraea foetida toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to dogs or cats.
Q: How often should I water Furcraea foetida?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Furcraea foetida flower?
A: Yes, it produces tall spikes of fragrant white flowers, though it typically flowers only once in its lifetime.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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