Agave sisalana
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsparagaceae
GenusAgave
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Agave sisalana, commonly known as sisal, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae. It is native to southern Mexico but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many other regions. The plant is known for its rosette of sword-shaped leaves and is primarily grown for its strong, durable fibers used in making ropes and textiles.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Mescal
Sisal
Sisal Hemp
Agave amaniensis
Agave rigida var. sisalana
Agave rigida var. sisaliana
Agave segurae
Agave sisalana f. armata
Agave sisalana var. armata
OVERVIEW
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity50%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Agave sisalana thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It is well-suited to seasonally dry tropical climates and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant does not require frequent watering and should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. Moderate humidity levels are sufficient for its growth.Soil
Agave sisalana prefers well-draining sandy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives best in a mix that allows for good drainage to prevent root rot. Avoid waterlogged conditions as the plant is susceptible to root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize sparingly, as over-fertilization can harm the plant.Repotting
Repot Agave sisalana when it outgrows its container or when the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix. Handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging the roots.Propagation
Agave sisalana can be propagated through offsets or 'pups' that grow at the base of the parent plant. These can be separated and planted individually. Propagation is best done during the growing season when the plant is actively growing.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Agave sisalana. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid infection.Toxicity
Agave sisalana is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap can cause skin irritation and should be handled with care. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Agave sisalana is a low-maintenance plant that is well-suited to xeriscaping and can be used in landscapes to add a dramatic, architectural element. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases, making it an excellent choice for low-water gardens.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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