Giant Cabuya

Furcraea foetida, known as Mauritius hemp and giant cabuya, is a large succulent with stiff, fleshy leaves arranged in a basal rosette. Mature rosettes can reach about 2–3.5 metres across, and the plant eventually sends up a much taller flowering stalk carrying pale flowers; after flowering it commonly declines and forms plantlets on the stalk. [Florida Natural Areas Inventory](https://www.fnai.org/species-communities/invasives/invasive-species?ID=67) · [Weeds of Australia fact sheet](https://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/media/Html/furcraea_foetida.htm) ## Landscape use Give the rosette ample open space as a sculptural focal point in a warm, dry garden. Its broad footprint can crowd nearby plants, while the mature flowering stalk rises well above the foliage. The species is also called green aloe, false agave, Cuban hemp, and Mauritius hemp. ## Site and growth Place it in a sunny, freely draining site and avoid crowding the sharp leaf tips against paths. Florida Natural Areas Inventory reports a USDA hardiness range of 8a–11; local conditions and drainage still affect winter survival. In regions where it can naturalize, check local planting guidance before using it outdoors. ## Maintenance Allow the soil to dry between waterings once the plant is established. After flowering, remove spent stalk material when safe to reach and manage the plantlets before they root where they are not wanted. Wear gloves when handling the leaves, whose margins and tips can be spiny.