Leuchtenbergia principis
Leuchtenbergia principis
Agave Cactus
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Taxonomy
Family Cactaceae · Genus Leuchtenbergia
Description
Leuchtenbergia principis, the agave cactus, is a striking Mexican succulent with long, triangular tubercles that mimic agave leaves and papery spines. Slow but resilient, it rewards bright sun with large yellow flowers and thrives on minimal water in a fast-draining mix.
Common Names
Agave CactusPrism CactusLeuchtenbergia
Context
nativeRegion
Chihuahuan Desert of north-central Mexico, on limestone hills and gravelly slopes.
usdaZones
9b–11
companionPlants
Ariocarpus fissuratus, Echinocereus spp., Ferocactus pilosus, Agave lechuguilla, Dasylirion spp.
culturalUses
Ornamental collector’s cactus for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and containers; attracts pollinators when in bloom.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to very bright light; 6–8+ hours. Acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorch.
WateringSoak and dry in spring–summer; water only when fully dry. Keep almost dry in winter.
SoilVery fast-draining, mineral-rich cactus mix with 50–80% pumice/perlite/grit; deep pot for taproot.
FertilizerDilute low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer (1/4–1/2 strength) monthly during active growth; none in winter.
HumidityLow; prefers arid conditions with good airflow.
TemperatureIdeal 70–90°F (21–32°C). Protect from prolonged cold; brief dry dips to ~25°F (-4°C) possible, safer above 40°F (4°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitSolitary, tuberculate cactus with long, agave-like segments and papery spines; eventually columnar with age.
Mature Size12–24 in tall (30–60 cm), 6–12 in wide (15–30 cm).
Growth RateSlow-growing.
BloomingLate spring to fall; large, lemon-yellow, funnel-shaped flowers on mature plants.
DormancyWinter dormant; growth slows markedly in cool, short days.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Offsets (rare), Tubercles/cuttings (advanced), Grafting
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningMinimal; remove spent flowers and dead tissue. Do not trim healthy tubercles.
RepottingEvery 3–5 years in a deep, well-draining pot; handle taproot gently and keep dry for several days after repotting.
Pests & DiseasesMealybugs (including root mealybugs), scale, spider mites; root/neck rot from excess moisture or poor airflow; sunburn if not acclimated.
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic, but sharp spines can puncture skin; handle with care.
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