🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Henequen fibers are used for rope, twine, and textiles. Leaves are used for animal feed and soil improvement. The plant acts as a living fence and erosion control barrier. It is extremely drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it valuable in arid and semi-arid environments.
Permapeople description
A fiber plant native to Yucatan, Mexico, used for rope and cordage.
Botanical description
Agave fourcroydes is a succulent plant in the Agavaceae family, native to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It forms a rosette of stiff, sword-shaped leaves up to 6 feet long, with smooth margins and a sharp terminal spine. The plant flowers only once in its lifetime, sending up a tall stalk (up to 20 feet) bearing numerous yellowish-green flowers. After flowering, the plant dies, but produces suckers around the base. It is monocarpic. The leaves yield a valuable fiber known as henequen.
Companion planting
Generally, it does not have specific known companion plants. Its primary role is as a barrier or fiber crop. Consider planting drought-tolerant species nearby such as cacti, yucca, and drought-resistant legumes to enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting species requiring high levels of water.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through suckers (offsets) that grow around the base of the mature plant. Seeds are possible but less common in cultivation. Rooting stem cuttings can also be successful.
History and traditions
Henequen cultivation has been a significant part of the Yucatan's economy for centuries. Mayan cultures traditionally used the fibers for clothing, rope, and hammocks. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, henequen production boomed, transforming the landscape and society of the region. It was a major source of wealth and employment. Traditional uses extend to medicinal applications for wound healing.
Usage calendar
Planting: Year-round in warm climates, best during the rainy season. Harvesting: Leaves are harvested after 5-7 years of growth. Flowering: Occurs after many years, usually 10-20 years or more, depending on growing conditions.