Agave

Agave americana

succulent

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Agaves are dramatic succulents with large, spiky rosettes. They are incredibly drought tolerant and can live for decades before flowering once and dying (monocarpic).

Common Problems

Select the problem your Agave is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Overwateringchevron_right

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Root Rotchevron_right

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Mushy Stemschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun.

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Water

Rarely — drought tolerant in the extreme.

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Soil

Sharply draining, sandy or gravelly soil.

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Fertiliser

Rarely needed — once per year if at all.

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Temperature

Hardy to -10°C (14°F) when dry.

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Humidity

Very low.

Toxicity

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Sap causes skin and eye irritation. Spines are hazardous.

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right spaCrown Rotchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my Agave die right after it flowered?

That's normal for this species — Agave is monocarpic, meaning it can live for decades before flowering once and then dying, so the flowering itself signals the end of its life cycle.

Why does my Agave's sap irritate my skin?

Its sap causes skin and eye irritation and the spines are hazardous, so it's best to wear gloves and eye protection when pruning or handling this plant.