Queen Victoria Agave
agave victoriae-reginae
Also known as: ["Queen Victoria Century Plant","Royal Agave"]
Overview
A striking succulent with geometrically arranged leaves and a compact rosette form, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Agave |
| Botanical Name: | Agave victoriae-reginae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped area, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove dead or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but should be acclimated gradually to avoid sunburn. In winter, provide as much light as possible.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; avoid intense midday sun; place in a south-facing window indoors or in partial shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, every 6–8 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use gritty soil mix.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in mild conditions. Avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or leaf cuttings. Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent.
- Let callus form for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), bright indirect light, and high humidity (60–70%) for leaf cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for offsets; optional for leaf cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; leaf cuttings can take 1–3 months to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow offsets to callus before planting; use clean tools to prevent rot; maintain consistent humidity for leaf cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into the main rosette.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent disease.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; use clean tools; cut only dead/damaged leaves; avoid main rosette.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil; water sparingly until established.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use well-draining soil; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the leaves. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to once every 4–6 weeks. Increase slightly in summer to every 2–3 weeks if temperatures are high and the plant is actively growing.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaf tips in cold; wilting or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions; leaves may develop dark spots or become mushy.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide protection from frost (e.g., frost cloth).
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or become pale; growth may stall; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry; increase air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply in spring/summer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Agave victoriae-reginae. The plant's spines can also pose a physical hazard.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Agave victoriae-reginae can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of sapogenins and saponins. Physical injury from spines is also possible.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAgave victoriae-reginae contains sapogenins and saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation upon ingestion. The plant's sharp leaf margins and spines can also cause physical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agave victoriae-reginae toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can this plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it requires bright light and good air circulation to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during growi |
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