Butterfly Agave
agave potatorum
Also known as: ["Cushion Agave","Cushion Prickly Pear"]
Overview
A striking succulent with rosettes of fleshy, blue-green leaves that terminate in sharp spines, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Agave |
| Botanical Name: | Agave potatorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor garden in arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- 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 debris accumulates.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily in cooler months, reduce to 4–6 hours in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak summer heat; indoor placement requires a south-facing window with unfiltered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer to diffuse harsh light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, every 4–6 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics and drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (18–30°C); tolerates brief dips to 5°C but thrives above 10°C; avoid frost.
Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures during flowering.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
offsets (pups) or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset with sharp, sterile knife.
- Let cut end dry for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), bright indirect light, and high humidity (60–70%) for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and coarse sand or perlite.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up leaf cutting propagation.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; leaf cuttings may take 6–8 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow offsets to callous before planting; use clean tools to prevent infection; do not overwater cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with a clean, sharp knife or shears.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent rot.
Tools
Sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; use clean tools; cut close to base; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot only 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 3–4 years; Agave potatorum is slow-growing and prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal disturbance to roots.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, soaking the root zone thoroughly until water drains from the bottom. Avoid wetting the leaves or crown to prevent rot. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, increasing to every 2–3 weeks in summer if temperatures exceed 30°C.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold stress; bud drop or wilting in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot; prolonged exposure below 5°C may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot with bubble wrap; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced vigor; may enter dormancy if too hot.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase airflow; water early morning or late evening; mist foliage sparingly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid crown.
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
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Agave potatorum, which can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and irritation. The sap may also lead to skin reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Agave potatorum by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. The sap can also cause skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave potatorum contains saponins and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agave potatorum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Agave potatorum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Agave potatorum flower?
A: Yes, it produces a tall flowering stalk once in its lifetime, after which the plant typically dies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
