Agave victoriae-reginae (Queen Victoria Agave)

The Agave victoriae-reginae, also known as Queen Victoria Agave, is a stunning succulent prized for its striking geometric pattern and compact size. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor settings, this low-maintenance succulent adds a touch of elegance to any space.

How to Care for Agave victoriae-reginae

Sunlight

Agave victoriae-reginae thrives in full sun to partial shade. Indoors, place the plant near a south or west-facing window for maximum sunlight exposure. Outdoor plants will appreciate some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Watering Agave victoriae-reginae

This succulent is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering. To avoid root rot ensure the soil is dry before watering again. Overwatering can cause the leaves to yellow and become mushy.

Soil for Queen Victoria Agave

A well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix is ideal for Queen Victoria Agave. Cactus and succulent soil mixes, combined with perlite or coarse sand, provide the necessary drainage for healthy root growth.

Temperature and Humidity

Victoriae-reginae can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) but is best suited to hardiness zones 9-11. This plant prefers low humidity and will thrive in dry indoor environments or arid outdoor climates.

Summary

Care for Agave victoriae-reginae with full sun to partial shade, infrequent watering, well-draining sandy soil, and low humidity. Ideal for dry indoor or arid outdoor environments.

How to Propagate Agave victoriae-reginae

Propagating from Pups

Agave victoriae-reginae produces offsets or pups, which can be easily separated for propagation. Gently remove the pup from the mother plant, ensuring it has some roots attached. Let the pup dry for a few days to allow the cut to callus. Plant the pup in a well-draining soil mix, and water sparingly until new growth is observed.

Propagating from Seeds

Collect seeds from a mature Queen Victoria Agave after it has flowered. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, keeping them moist but not wet. Germination can take several weeks to months, so patience is required. Once seedlings have grown a few inches, transplant them into individual pots.

Summary

Propagate Agave victoriae-reginae using pups or seeds. Separate pups, let them dry, then plant. Sow seeds in well-draining soil, keep moist, and transplant seedlings.

Fertilizing Your Agave victoriae-reginae

Fertilizing is not essential for Agave victoriae-reginae, as it can grow well in nutrient-poor soils. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to grow too quickly and lose its compact shape.

Common Pests and Diseases

Agave victoriae-reginae is relatively pest-resistant. However, it may attract mealybugs , scale insects, and spider mites. Remove pests manually with a cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use insecticidal soap to treat infestations. Keep an eye out for signs of root rot, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. If detected, remove the affected roots, let the plant dry, and replant it in fresh, well-draining soil. Prevent fungal diseases by maintaining proper airflow around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.

Summary

Fertilize Agave victoriae-reginae sparingly with balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Watch for pests like mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites, and address root rot with proper care.

Where to Buy

Buy Queen Victoria Agave from Mountain Crest Gardens