Giant Cabuya

(Furcraea tuberosa)

Giant Cabuya (Furcraea tuberosa)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 43" - 86"
High Temp. 83°F - 92°F
Low Temp. 61°F - 71°F

Summary

Furcraea tuberosa, commonly known as Giant Cabuya or Mauritius Hemp, is a large, evergreen perennial herb native to dry areas in the Caribbean. It has been naturalized in South Africa and is potentially invasive in some regions. This plant typically grows up to 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) in height and width, with a rosette of long, lance-shaped, gray-green leaves that can reach up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. The leaves have sharp edges and a terminal spine, which should be handled with care. Furcraea tuberosa blooms infrequently, but when it does, it produces a tall flower stalk up to 20 feet (6 meters) high, with greenish-white flowers that are not particularly showy.

In cultivation, Furcraea tuberosa is valued for its bold architectural form and is often used as a focal point in xeriscaping, succulent gardens, or as a container plant for large spaces. It prefers full sun to light shade and well-draining soil. While it is low maintenance, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Due to its potential invasiveness, it is important to manage its spread by removing offsets and monitoring for self-seeding. It has been found to become invasive in South Africa via prolific bulbils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 6-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Green
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to dry areas in the Caribbean

Other Names

Common Names: Caribbean Agave, Green Aloe, Karata, Pita, Mauritius Hemp

Scientific Names: Furcraea tuberosa, Agave angustifolia, Agave campanulata, Agave spinosa, Agave tuberosa, Fourcroya tuberosa, Furcraea geminispina, Furcraea interrupta, Furcraea lipsiensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Furcraea tuberosa