Agave vilmoriniana (Octopus Agave): Plant Profile and Care Tips

Hello and welcome to Brainy Gardener! Today it is all about how to grow and care for the Agave vilmoriniana. Agave vilmoriniana also called Octopus Agave is a gorgeous evergreen succulent native to Mexico. The name ‘Octopus Agave’ comes from its appearance. It has large, octopus-like leaves arranged in a rosette. It is one of the distinctive Agaves, which has soft terminal spines and delicate, soft serrations or spines along the leaf margins.
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RESOURCES & LINKS:
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Agave vilmoriniana (Octopus Agave): Plant Profile and Care Tips
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Video Timestamps
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0:00 - Introduction
1:20- Light and Location
2:04 - Watering
2:24- Temperature
2:50 - Humidity
3:08 - Fertilization
3:34 - Propagation
4:38- Potting and Repotting
5:49 - Toxicity and Common Pests
6:54 - Note and Avoid
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Summary
Agave vilmoriniana also called Octopus Agave is a gorgeous evergreen succulent native to Mexico. The name ‘Octopus Agave’ comes from its appearance. It has large, octopus-like leaves arranged in a rosette. It is one of the distinctive Agaves, which has soft terminal spines and delicate, soft serrations or spines along the leaf margins. It’s a slow-growing succulent that can reach up to 3 feet tall and spread twice as wide. Undulating, spineless green leaves form a spectacular rosette.
1. Light and Location
Octopus Agave is a succulent that requires full sun to thrive. If grown indoors, situate it near a window with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Plants in shadier conditions tend to become leggy and pale, with elongated leaves prone to rotting.
2. Watering
Octopus Agave requires very little water. It’s best to let the soil dry out between watering sessions. This will help prevent root rot from occurring, a common problem with these plants when watered too often. Water deeply but infrequently during the summer and not at all during the winter.
3. Temperature
Octopus Agave prefers temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If your home is too cold, consider moving these plants to a warmer spot or purchasing a small greenhouse where they can get some extra heat during the winter months. It likes a warm and dry environment and has an adaptable growth temperature around 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Humidity
The ideal humidity range is between 40 and 60 percent. These plants prefer low humidity because high humidity can lead to root rot. Dry conditions are preferable to humid ones as this plant doesn’t like having too much moisture around.
5. Fertilization
Fertilize your Agave vilmoriniana every two to three months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The optimum time to fertilize octopus agave is when it is actively growing, which is often from spring until summer. Once a month is the frequency of fertilization. It is recommended to use liquid or compound fertilizer with low concentration level.
6. Propagation
Octopus Agave can be Propagated by offshoots. It is the easiest, fastest and most effective method of agave plant propagation. These plants produce offshoots from the base of the mother plants that can be easily removed to start new plants. To start the process, select a mature and healthy plant. Carefully remove offshoot from the mother plant by grasping it gently with a pair of pliers and pulling it away from the base.
7. Potting and Repotting
Octopus Agave needs to be repotted after around every two years. Also consider repotting when you notice the roots are growing out of the container. The best time to repot is early spring when the plant is starting to grow. You can also repot during the summer, but ensure that you do so before temperatures get too hot.
8. Toxicity and Common Pests
Octopus Agave is mildly toxic, with sap capable of irritation and blistering. The plant is not generally considered a health hazard, but it is best to avoid contact with any part of the plant if possible. These plants are susceptible to Agave snout weevil, Scale Insects and Slugs and Snails.
9. Note and Avoid
Please Note and Avoid. Over-watering the plant, Placing it under harsh sunlight, Using poorly drained potting mediums, and Fertilizing during the dormancy period.
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[@NightlifeTyrant]

Yes! Much obliged! 👍🏼

[@filipemferreira1]

Thank you. Very helpful

[@brainygardener1650]

Glad it was helpful!