Shafer's Agave
agave shaferi
Also known as: ["Shafer's Century Plant"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Agave |
| Botanical Name: | Agave shaferi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions, or as a potted plant in a sunny location
- 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 with added 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; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) or bright indirect light. Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; avoid sudden exposure to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct midday sun indoors.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty soil; avoid peat-heavy mixes; ensure pots drain freely.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air flow in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during growing season with balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; high humidity (60–70%) for leaf cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with leaf cuttings.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; leaf cuttings may take 1–3 months to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow offsets to callous before planting; use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; use clean tools; cut close to base; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water sparingly 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 thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure containers have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme heat; leaf damage or stunted growth in cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch or dehydration, especially with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently; increase air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Agave shaferi due to its saponin content, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Agave shaferi by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of saponins and other irritants.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave shaferi contains saponins and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects 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 shaferi toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Agave shaferi?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Agave shaferi require full sun?
A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during growi |
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