Century Plant
agave salmiana
Also known as: ["Faro","Maguey"]
Overview
A large, succulent plant native to Mexico, known for its rosette of spiky leaves and eventual tall flowering stalk.
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 salmiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- 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; only remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Can tolerate partial shade but may stretch or etiolate if light is insufficient.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually to prevent scorching; place in the brightest possible location indoors; outdoors, ensure unobstructed sunlight exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateEasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains only if light is too intense.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, every 6–8 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a mix with inorganic components for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–90°F or 18–32°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or leaf cuttings. Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome) for leaf cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for offsets; optional for leaf cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; leaf cuttings can take 1–3 months to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix, propagation tray or pot.
Quick Tips
Allow offsets to callous before planting; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture without overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with a clean, sharp tool. Avoid cutting into the main rosette.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent disease.
Tools
Pruning shears or a sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; use clean tools; cut only dead/damaged leaves; dispose of trimmings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Choose a well-draining pot; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, soaking the root zone deeply until water drains from the bottom. Allow excess to drain completely before placing back in its spot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer; reduce to monthly or less in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Cold stress: leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), soft or mushy leaves; heat stress: wilting, stunted growth, or leaf scorch.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot or leaf damage, especially if combined with moisture.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering in cold periods; protect from frost with a cover or indoor placement.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf burn, or reduced growth if not accompanied by adequate water and shade.
Solution: Provide some afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize only in growing season; avoid contact with roots; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are sensitive to the toxic compounds in Agave salmiana, which can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The sap may also cause skin and oral irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Agave salmiana by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. The sap can also cause oral and skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave salmiana 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 salmiana edible?
A: The leaves and flower stalk are edible after proper preparation, but the sap can be irritating.
Q: How often should I water Agave salmiana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Agave salmiana flower?
A: Yes, it produces a tall flowering stalk once in its lifetime, after which the main plant dies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during growi |
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