Troubleshooting
Agave americana problems — and how to fix them
Agave americana (Agave americana) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root and crown rot
The leading cause of death. Overwatering or a heavy, water-retentive mix rots the base; use gritty soil and water sparingly.
Sharp marginal teeth and tip spine
Leaf edges and the terminal point can cause painful puncture wounds. Site it away from walkways and children, or trim the tip spine.
Agave snout weevil
Larvae bore into the core, causing sudden collapse, especially in warm climates. Remove and destroy affected plants; keep stress low.
Etiolation in low light
Pale, stretched, leaning leaves mean too little sun. Move to the brightest spot available; weak growth will not re-firm.
Prevent agave americana problems before they start
Most agave americana issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Agave americana varieties: common problems
Looking for agave americana in general rather than its problems? Read the full agave americana care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Agave americana problems — FAQ
Why is my agave americana root and crown rot?
The leading cause of death. Overwatering or a heavy, water-retentive mix rots the base; use gritty soil and water sparingly.
Why is my agave americana sharp marginal teeth and tip spine?
Leaf edges and the terminal point can cause painful puncture wounds. Site it away from walkways and children, or trim the tip spine.
Why is my agave americana agave snout weevil?
Larvae bore into the core, causing sudden collapse, especially in warm climates. Remove and destroy affected plants; keep stress low.
Why is my agave americana etiolation in low light?
Pale, stretched, leaning leaves mean too little sun. Move to the brightest spot available; weak growth will not re-firm.