PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering; tolerates partial shade during extreme summer heat to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply only when the top 15–20 cm of soil is completely dry to avoid root rot
Temperature
Tolerates freezing temperatures down to -10°C and high desert heat up to 38°C; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below -12°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Rigid, sword-shaped leaves with sharp terminal spines, blue-green to gray-green, up to 60 cm long
- Flower: Creamy white, bell-shaped blooms clustered in upright panicles up to 2 m in height
- Stem: Short, woody stem partially concealed by overlapping leaf bases
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks when soil is fully dry
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen feed once every 2 months. Use phosphorus-rich diluted feed to support flower development
Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface, avoiding direct contact with leaves to prevent irritationPruning
- Remove dead, brown leaves from the base to improve airflow and maintain a tidy appearance
- Trim spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to foliage growth
- Thin overcrowded rosettes every 2–3 years to reduce competition for water and nutrients
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Mildly toxic; saponins can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy if ingested
Humans: Contains saponins; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation including nausea and stomach pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; traditional fiber source for indigenous communities in its native range
