Furcraea foetida 'Striata'

Family

Agavaceae

Native

Tropical America

Description

Furcraea gigantea 'Striata' or Giant False Agave is an evergreen stemless or with a short stem plant, up to 1 m tall & growing to 2 m (6ft) by 2 m (6ft)

This moderately fast growing plant forms a large rosette with 4-5 foot long, flexible, sword-shaped leaves. Long, linear leaves are green with a thick cream-coloured band in the middle, running parallel to the mid-vein. They have a wavy leaf margin, lack spines, and are arranged in a rosette.

After about 10 years of growth Furcraea foetida 'Striata' will bloom by sending up a 15′ flower spike. The bell shaped flowers hang from the inflorescence branches and are greenish yellow, strongly scented, and very attractive to bees. They are followed by thousands of small plantlets that cover the inflorescence. The main plant will die after flowering and is monocarpic.

The flowers are pollinated by Birds, Bees.

Environment

Furcraea grows best in filtered light and gritty soil that percolates easily. They can even do quite well when potted but use an un-glazed clay pot that will allow evaporation of excess moisture.

Water needs are moderate to light depending upon the heat of the season but the Cactus should be allowed to dry out before irrigation

In growing season they benefit from the application of a granulated time release fertilizer that will provide nutrient to the plant.

Landscape Uses

This is a very nice structural plant for medium to large drought tolerant gardens. It makes a bold accent and can also be grown as a large potted plant. This is a very nice structural plant for medium to large drought tolerant gardens.