How to prune agave bovicornuta

Any time of year, as needed. With gloved hands, cut dead outer leaves as close to the stem base as possible using a sharp, sterile blade. Avoid injuring adjacent healthy leaves. Pups are uncommon but can be removed once they are one-quarter the size of the parent.

Rarely — cosmetic tidying only. Agave bovicornuta (Cow-Horn Agave) is a striking rosette succulent that needs almost no pruning. Remove only dead or browning outer leaves at the base to keep it tidy. Never trim the distinctive brown-toothed leaf margins. Wear heavy puncture-resistant gloves at all times — the spines and teeth are formidable.

With gloved hands, cut dead outer leaves as close to the stem base as possible using a sharp, sterile blade. Avoid injuring adjacent healthy leaves. Pups are uncommon but can be removed once they are one-quarter the size of the parent.