Thorncrest Century Plant
agave univittata
Also known as: ["Century Plant","Maguey"]
Overview
A large, succulent perennial with spiny, rosette-forming leaves and a tall flowering stalk that appears after many years.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Agave |
| Botanical Name: | Agave univittata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions, or as a container plant in bright indoor spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix; can be amended with sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but thrives in bright light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with large particles for aeration; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–90°F/18–32°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during active growth with balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or seeds; pups are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate pup from parent.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright location with indirect light; maintain moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining cactus mix or sand and perlite mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for pups; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Pups may root in 2–4 weeks; seeds take 2–6 months to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium, pots with drainage holes.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use warm water for initial watering; maintain consistent warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut only dead/damaged leaves; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot; water sparingly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; infrequent repotting is preferred.
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 moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply water slowly to allow absorption; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, especially in winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or leaf damage in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, and can lead to fungal infections in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced vigor in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer; apply sparingly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are sensitive to the toxic compounds in Agave univittata, particularly saponins and calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Agave univittata can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins and calcium oxalate crystals. These compounds can cause irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave univittata contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's sap is particularly irritating to mucous membranes and can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agave univittata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Agave univittata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Agave univittata flower?
A: Yes, it produces a tall flowering stalk after many years, but it typically dies after flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during growi |
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