Toumey's Agave
agave toumeyana
Also known as: ["Toumey Agave"]
Overview
A small, slow-growing agave species native to the southwestern United States, characterized by its rosette of fleshy, spiky leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Agave |
| Botanical Name: | Agave toumeyana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden or xeriscaped area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct sun through glass in summer; provide dappled shade during peak heat.
Watering
every 2–4 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering to prevent root 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 stability.
Temperature
Ideal range: 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates brief frosts but prefers warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or seed; offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
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 (70–80°F/21–27°C), bright indirect light, and moderate humidity (40–60%).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for offsets; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; seeds take 2–6 months to germinate and several years to mature.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, small pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow offsets to callous before planting; use a small pot to avoid overwatering; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into the main rosette.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
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/5–7 cm wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; 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; infrequent repotting is preferred.
Checklist
Choose a well-draining pot; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent standing moisture; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, especially in winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency during dormancy (fall/winter).
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or leaf damage in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or leaf discoloration if exposed to prolonged cold below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; use frost cloth or mulch for outdoor plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or curl; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering slightly; use reflective mulch to reduce heat absorption.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to gastrointestinal irritation and other toxic effects if they ingest Agave toumeyana. The sap can also cause skin and oral irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Agave toumeyana can lead to gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of saponins and other irritants. The sap may also cause oral and skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAgave toumeyana 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: How often should I water Agave toumeyana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Agave toumeyana flower?
A: Yes, it produces a tall flowering stalk once in its lifetime, after which the plant typically dies.
Q: Is Agave toumeyana cold-hardy?
A: It is somewhat cold-tolerant but prefers mild winters and should be protected from hard freezes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–4 weeks during activ |
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