Maguey Espinudo
agave asperrima
Also known as: ["Rough-leaved Agave","Spiny Agave"]
Overview
A large, spiny succulent native to Mexico, known for its robust rosette of stiff, sharp-pointed 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 asperrima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped landscape, or container in a sunny spot
- 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.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but may benefit from partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries out fully between waterings, and reduce frequency in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; use a mix with inorganic components.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally 70–90°F (21–32°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; ensure good drainage in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or stem cutting.
- Allow cut end to callous for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining potting mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use well-draining soil; maintain warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut dead leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent disease.
Tools
Pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut dead leaves at base; avoid damaging healthy tissue; dispose of removed leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant carefully, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
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; trim dead roots; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter; avoid crown wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation. Water until water drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Avoid wetting the foliage or crown.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaf tips in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf damage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet. Prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply in spring/summer; avoid winter; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Agave asperrima, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other adverse reactions. The plant's sharp spines pose an additional risk of injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Agave asperrima by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. The plant's spines can also cause physical injury to the mouth or digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave asperrima contains saponins and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and other adverse effects upon ingestion. The plant's sharp spines and fibrous leaves can also cause physical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agave asperrima toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal irritation.
Q: How often should I water Agave asperrima?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially in winter.
Q: Does Agave asperrima 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 |
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