Agave parrasana is a beautiful succulent that can add a burst of color to any garden. Its small stature and easygoing nature make it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.
This guide will showcase the proper steps on how to grow and care for Agave parrasana so that your plant will be healthy and beautiful.
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About Agave parrasana
Agave parrasana is an evergreen succulent native to Mexico. The Cabbage Head Agave gets its name from the way its thick leaves form a tight symmetrical rosette that resembles a cabbage.
The thick, fleshy leaves are imprinted with the overlapping rosette silhouette, forming intricate patterns. Green and gray, the leaves are lined with ridged spines and a sharp, brown-to-black terminal spine.
It can reach about 2 feet tall when it’s mature and has an average lifespan of 20 years.
The plant doesn’t need much care and grows well in most climates but prefers dry conditions with full sun exposure.
Related Article: An in-depth look into all types of Agave succulent
| Botanical Name | Agave parrasana |
| Common Name | Cabbage Head Agave |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Height | 1-2 feet |
| Width | 1-2 feet |
| Light | Full sun, Partial shade |
| Bloom season | Summer |
| Bloom color | Yellow, Gold |
| Water needs | Low |
| Soil | Well-Drained, Loamy, Sandy |
| Tolerant | Deer, Drought, Salt |
| Toxicity | Mildly-toxic |
| Hardiness (USDA) | 7-11 |
Agave parrasana Care
Agave parrasana doesn’t require much to thrive. It is a good plant for beginners because of its low-maintenance needs and hardiness.
Light
Agave parrasana requires full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Scorching hot sunlight can sometimes burn the leaves, so placing the plant in a partially shaded area that still gets plenty of sunlight is best.
Soil
The plant has no special requirements, but it needs well-draining soil. A mixture of pumice and perlite works well because it allows water to drain quickly while retaining moisture.
Slightly acidic soil will suit the plant well.
Water
Agave parrasana does not like to be overwatered, so it’s essential to check the soil before watering. If the top inch of the potting soil feels dry, it’s time to add some water. Remember that you should use only water when the soil is dry because overwatering can cause root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Agave parrasana can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it does best in environments with warm days and cool nights. In cold winters, it’s essential to place the plant near a heat source such as a furnace or fireplace so that it doesn’t get too chilly at night.
The plant does best in temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is frost-hardy in zones 7 through 11, making it one of the more winter-friendly succulents in cultivation.
Humidity is a non-issue for this plant, but it will appreciate average room conditions.
Fertilizer
Agave parrasana does not need much fertilizer, but it will respond well to feeding once or twice per year in the spring. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half-strength to give the plant an extra boost of nutrients.
Pruning
Agave parrasana does not need to be pruned, but it will respond well to hard pruning once every other year in the spring or summer. This will encourage new growth and make the plant look more attractive.
Potting and Repotting Agave parrasana
Agave parrasana should be repotted once every three years or so in the spring or early summer. This will help keep your Agave healthy and prevent it from becoming rootbound.
Don’t repot during winter because the plant is dormant and will not be able to function during this period.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Remove the Agave from its container, using a trowel to loosen the soil around it.
- Carefully remove any dirt clinging to the roots by gently shaking them clean.
- Cut off any dead or damaged roots with a sharp knife.
- Spread the roots evenly in the new pot and fill it with soil mix. Pack the soil firmly around the plant, but don’t compress it too hard.
- Place the Agave in a warm, sunny spot and water it thoroughly.
Propagating Agave parrasana by Seeds (Step-by-Step)
- Harvest the seeds. You can only do this after the plant has flowered.
- Remove the seeds from their pods and plant them in a pot filled with soil mix.
- Keep them moist until they germinate.
- Once you see the first sprouts, remove any unwanted seedlings.
- Keep them moist and in a sunny location until they are ready for transplantation.
Propagating Agave parrasana by Offsets (Step-by-Step)
- Remove the offsets from the mother plant.
- Allow the wounded end of the offsets to heal for a few days.
- Place them in a pot filled with soil mix.
- Keep them moist until they grow roots on their own.
- Once they do so, transplant them into another pot or outdoor location.
Blooms
Agave parrasana is monocarpic, meaning that it only blooms once before dying.
It typically takes ten to fifteen years for the plant to reach maturity. When it does bloom, it produces a long flower spike with many yellow flowers at the top. Once the flowers have bloomed, the plant dies.
This is why it is important to keep an eye on your Agave parrasana and ensure you do not miss its flowering period!
Toxicity
Agave ovatifolia is mildly toxic. The sap from this Agave can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis in people who are sensitive to it.
NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.
Common Pests
Agave snout weevil
Agave snout weevil is the most common pest of Agave parrasana. This insect can be identified by its long snout, which is used to bore into the plant and lay eggs. If you notice that your Agave parrasana has been damaged in this way, it is vital to remove all infested parts immediately.
Scale Insects
Scale insects can be identified by their hard, brown, or black protective shells. These insects suck the sap from plants, which weakens them and causes discoloration. Treatment includes neem oil or horticultural oils.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails can cause damage to your Agave parrasana by eating the leaves and stems. However, you can use bait or traps to counteract before these pests damage your Agave.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy
Common Problems
Agave parrasana (Cabbage Head Agave): Step By Steb Care Guide (Video)
