Furcraea foetida

Mauritius hemp

Amazing 25' tall final flower stalk. Best in filtered light. Protect from frost, wet soils. Cool summer slows its growth. Unarmed.

Height2–5ft
Width6–10ft
ToleratesCool Summers, Drought, Fog, Pots, Salt, Wind
Water needsLow

Water this plant infrequently, when the top two inches or so of soil feel dry. Usually this will mean every week or two in dry weather. If you establish this pattern over several years, then you can cut back to watering every four to six weeks in dry weather. Use drippers, emitters, or a slow stream of water so that it doesn't run off; allow the water to trickle all the way down through the deepest layers of soil. This plant will look more lush if given water every two to four weeks during dry weather once established. In a pot slowly water the entire surface until water comes out of the bottom of your pot.

Hardy to25°F
ExposureFull Shade – Full Sun
Plant traitsMonocarpic, Rosette, Solitary
Indoor / outdoorOutdoor
DrainageIn Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil
FertilizingAll Purpose
OriginN South America
California nativeNo
Sunset zones13, 17, 21–24

Growing Notes

This plant is monocarpic; once it is fully matured, after around ten years, it will send up a dramatic flower spike and then die.

Special Interest

The common name of this plant alludes to fibers within its leaves, used for cordage.

The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.

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