Overview
Furcraea foetida is a tufted cactus succulent in the genus Furcraea, part of the Asparagaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Furcraea foetida grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens, patio and container plants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Furcraea foetida is a species of flowering plant native to the Caribbean and northern South America. It is widely cultivated and reportedly naturalized in many places.
About the genus
Furcraea is a genus of succulent plants belonging to the family Asparagaceae, native to tropical regions of Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America. Some species are also naturalized in parts of Africa, the United States (Florida), Portugal, Thailand, India, and Australia, as well as on various oceanic islands. Plants of this genus are the origin of fique or cabuyo, a natural fiber.
Wikipedia contributors, "Furcraea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Furcraea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Furcraea
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Furcraea foetida size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent, Shrubs
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Furcraea foetida
- Propagation
- Seed, Bulbils
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Furcraea foetida?
Furcraea foetida prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Furcraea foetida need?
Furcraea foetida grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Furcraea foetida hardy in the UK?
Furcraea foetida has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Furcraea foetida?
Seed, Bulbils.