Shaw's Agave
agave shawii
Also known as: ["Shaw's Century Plant","Coastal Agave"]
Overview
A hardy succulent native to coastal regions of Mexico and the southwestern United States, characterized by rosettes of stiff, spined leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Agave |
| Botanical Name: | Agave shawii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: xeriscaped garden or rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix; can tolerate sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically once a year or when debris accumulates.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense heat.
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
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even exposure.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, 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).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–90°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering for heat.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during active growth; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or seeds; stem cuttings are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light; moderate humidity; well-ventilated.
Medium
Well-draining cactus mix or sand and perlite blend.
Hormone
Not typically required for offsets; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; seeds may take several weeks to months to germinate.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, rooting medium, pots.
Quick Tips
Allow offsets to callous before planting; use sterile tools; avoid overwatering new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid tearing.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.
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 active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound; infrequent repotting is preferred.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid overpotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, especially in winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency during dormant periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning in leaves; stunted growth; bud drop or failure to flower.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become mushy or discolored; root rot can develop in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; ensure soil dries quickly.
Hot Stress
Leaf tips may brown; growth may slow; soil may dry too quickly.
Solution: Provide some afternoon shade; water deeply but infrequently; mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to soil, not foliage; 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 susceptible to gastrointestinal and renal toxicity from ingesting Agave shawii, with saponins being the primary irritant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Agave shawii can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential kidney damage in dogs due to the presence of saponins and other toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave shawii contains saponins and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agave shawii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Agave shawii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Agave shawii flower?
A: Yes, it produces a tall flowering stalk once in its lifetime, after which the plant typically dies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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