Tuberose - Agave amica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Tuberose

The tuberose has a long history of providing fragrance to the world. Used in perfumery since the 17th century, tuberose was a scent worn by French Queen Marie Antoinette, and has continued to be used widely for its distinctive, although extremely strong, scent.

Scientific classification

Species

Tuberose (Agave amica)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Tuberose

Distribution Map

Tuberose is native to the subtropical regions of North America and has a broad introduced range, encompassing parts of Asia, Central America, South America, and some tropical regions. Cultivated beyond its native habitat for various purposes, tuberose has adapted to diverse environmental conditions across major world regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Dangerous pleasure

Interesting Facts

A favorite of Louis XIV of France, hundreds of tuberose were planted in the gardens of the Grand Trianon at Versailles. Referred to as the Palace of Flora, all of the rooms of the palace had a view of the gardens and their magnificent flowers. In a letter from 1689, Madame de Maintenon wrote about the tuberose in particular, stating that the powerful fragrance was so overwhelming in the evening that guests would often feel ill.

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Toxicity

Breathing the powerful perfume of tuberose can cause chest tightness, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. If symptoms appear, move the blooming potted plant outside and ventilate the home. Symptoms usually subside quickly.

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Quickly Identify Tuberose

Tuberous base - Not a true bulb; buried 2 inches (5 cm) deep in soil.

Flowers - Waxy, white to yellow, tubular, 2 inches (5 cm) long, fragrant.

Fruit - Capsule, splits upon maturity, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

Leaves - Sword-shaped, 2-6 feet (60-180 cm) long, bright green, serrated edges.

Blooming pattern - Gradual from bottom to top of 10 feet (3 meters) spike.

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Care Guide for Tuberose

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tuberose flourishes in moderate humidity and balanced water conditions, requiring weekly watering. Native to tropical regions, it shows good drought tolerance and has higher water needs during its growing season when commonly grown outdoors.

Fertilize: Fertilize tuberose every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with balanced nutrition to support growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilization, stop in winter, and resume in spring. Use gloves and dilute as directed to protect both tuberose and yourself for optimal health.

Pruning: Pruning tuberose in early spring encourages new growth and enhances health by removing spent flower stalks and damaged leaves. Keeping healthy leaves supports photosynthesis. Timely pruning promotes optimal blooming and aesthetic appeal. Consult horticultural guides for specific techniques and tool recommendations.

Propagation: Tuberose can be propagated by separating offsets or 'pups' from the mother plant once they have roots. Plant these in well-draining soil, ideally in containers, and maintain proper watering and protection from extreme conditions for healthy growth.

Repotting: Repot tuberose every 2-3 years in spring to encourage growth. Use a slightly larger container, well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering to prevent rot. This care supports tuberose's sweet-scented blooms and healthy foliage.

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