Agave potatorum
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsparagaceae
GenusAgave
Zone9
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Agave potatorum, commonly known as the Butterfly Agave, is a succulent perennial native to the seasonally dry tropical climates of Mexico. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and the Agave genus. This plant is known for its rosette of thick, fleshy leaves with spiny edges and a striking blue-green color. It has a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Agave amoena
Agave auricantha
Agave elegans
Agave latifolia
Agave potatorum var. verschaffeltii
Agave pulchra
Agave quadrata
Agave saundersii
Agave schnittspahnii
Agave scolymus
Agave scolymus var. polymorpha
Agave verschaffeltii
Butterfly agave
OVERVIEW
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity40%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Agave potatorum thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate low humidity and requires minimal watering, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. Ensure the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area to prevent fungal issues.Soil
This agave prefers sandy soil with excellent drainage. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal, as it prevents water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to rot. Avoid heavy, clay-based soils that retain moisture.Fertilizer
Fertilize Agave potatorum sparingly, using a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 2-7-7. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, typically once a month, to support healthy growth.Repotting
Repot Agave potatorum every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes. Handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging the roots and spines.Propagation
Propagate Agave potatorum through offsets or 'pups' that grow at the base of the parent plant. Remove the offsets carefully and allow them to dry for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Propagation is best done during the growing season.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Agave potatorum. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Use gloves and tools to avoid injury from the spines.Toxicity
Agave potatorum is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap can cause skin irritation, so handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
