Giant Cabuya - Furcraea foetida (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Giant Cabuya

Also known as: Mauritius-Hemp

Giant Cabuya (Furcraea foetida) is an evergreen perennial that can grow to be 1.2 to 1.5 m tall. It has beautiful, variegated foliage that forms a fountain of sword-shaped leaves with rippled edges. They look like ribbons unfurling. This species is tolerant to heat, humidity and drought. It is often planted on sunny borders.

Scientific classification

Species

Giant Cabuya (Furcraea foetida)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

4 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Green, White, Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Giant Cabuya

Distribution of Giant Cabuya

Distribution Map

Giant Cabuya enjoys a broad distribution, being native to parts of South America and Central America. It has since been introduced to various regions across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, embracing a role in both natural and cultivated environments. Though not aggressively invasive, giant Cabuya may have an impact on ecosystems in certain areas where it is non-native, notably in some Pacific islands and parts of Africa and Asia. The extent of its cultivation reflects a resilience and adaptability, although it does so with a gentle footprint on local flora.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Tropical highlands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Giant Cabuya

Spiky sword-shaped leaves, 4-7 feet (1.2-2.1 meters) long, lacking spines.

Towering floral spike up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) with greenish-white blossoms.

Robust, succulent stature without trunk, reaching 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall.

Generates tiny plantlets on flower structure post-flowering.

Distinct fragrance attracting bees, prominent wavy leaf shape.

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Care Guide for Giant Cabuya

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from arid regions, giant Cabuya exhibits excellent drought tolerance, requiring watering only once every three weeks. Thriving in xeric landscapes, its succulent-like characteristics allow for efficient water storage, making it ideal for dry climates and sandy soils.

Fertilize: Fertilize giant Cabuya with a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer quarterly, reducing dosage in winter. This regimen supports strong growth and enhances robustness. Avoid over-fertilization; ensure even distribution and water after application for optimal results, suitable for all gardeners from sprout to maturity.

Pruning: Giant Cabuya has a dramatic rosette shape and sword-like foliage. Prune in early spring to remove dead leaves and trim spent flowers after blooming. Regular sucker removal enhances air circulation and health, while sharp tools prevent disease. Pruning promotes new growth and a tidy look.

Propagation: Giant Cabuya is primarily propagated through division, involving the careful separation of healthy offsets. Each segment should have roots and be planted in well-draining soil. Regular watering is essential, while avoiding waterlogging, allowing the divisions to mature into independent plants.

Repotting: Giant Cabuya is a large succulent with rosette-shaped leaves. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger pot with well-draining mix. After repotting, water sparingly and provide bright, indirect sunlight for a smooth transition and healthy growth.

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Images of Giant Cabuya

Distribution of Giant Cabuya

Quickly Identify Giant Cabuya

Care Guide for Giant Cabuya

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