Furcraea macdougalii: A Giant, Trunk-Forming Relative of Agave

Furcraea macdougalii is a spectacular, tree-like succulent that develops a tall, solitary trunk up to 20 feet high, topped with a massive rosette of long, stiff, blue-green leaves. Unlike agaves, it is not monocarpic; it can flower multiple times, producing a huge panicle of greenish-white flowers followed by thousands of bulbils (plantlets) that drop and root. Native to Oaxaca, Mexico, it’s a bold architectural statement for frost-free gardens.

Taxonomic Profile

Growing Conditions

Full sun. Well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant. Frost tender; protect below 28°F (-2°C). The bulbils make propagation easy. Excellent as a focal point in large, dry gardens.