Miniature False Agave (Deuterocohnia brevifolia)

Miniature False Agave

Deuterocohnia brevifolia

Tight rosettes of silvery spines bring desert elegance to small spaces. Succulent bromeliad; common name: Dwarf Deuterocohnia.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun to partial sun; tolerate bright indirect light for indoor cultivation; avoid prolonged deep shade
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Watering Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, rigid leaves covered in silvery trichomes with sharp terminal spines, forming dense tight rosettes
  • Flower: Small, tubular white to pale pink blooms on short, upright stalks above the rosette
  • Stem: Short, compact basal stem hidden beneath the leaf rosette
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when the top 5 cm of soil is fully dry

Fertilization

Diluted cactus fertilizer applied once monthly. Cease fertilization during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient buildup

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve drainage; avoid direct contact with leaf rosettes
Pruning
  • Gently pluck dead outer leaves to maintain a tidy rosette shape
  • Trim spent flower stalks at the base after blooming to redirect plant energy
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring to propagate new plants
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for container gardens, rock gardens, and indoor succulent arrangements