Water
Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler months.
Also known as Large-Thorned Agave
Agave macroacantha, the Black-Spined Agave, forms dense rosettes of dark green leaves edged with prominent black spines.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
90% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter.
30% intensity
Well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Sandy loam is also suitable.
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures between 18-27°C. Can tolerate brief dips but protect from frost.
70% intensity
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season (spring/summer) with a diluted balanced fertilizer.
20% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Sap can cause skin irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler months.
Pruning is generally not required. Remove dead or damaged leaves at the base of the plant using a clean, sharp knife or shears. Avoid excessive pruning.
Easily propagated from offsets (pups) that grow at the base of the mother plant. Allow offsets to callous over before planting in well-draining soil.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one with drainage holes. Use a gritty, well-draining soil mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Black-Spined Agave (Agave macroacantha)
Where Black-Spined Agave (Agave macroacantha) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Agave |
| Species | Agave macroacantha |
Similar in genus Agave
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
