Scientific Name
Agave angustifolia 'Marginata'
Common Name(s)
Variegated Caribbean Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave vivipara var. marginata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
Agave angustifolia 'Marginata' is a variegated cultivar of Agave angustifolia.
Description
Agave angustifolia 'Marginata' is an attractive succulent plant that forms dense rosettes atop a short trunk, usually hidden until the plant gets some age. The rosettes can reach up to 4 feet (1.2 m) in diameter. The leaves are greyish-green to bluish-grey with a broad, pale green central band and strong creamy-white margins that often have a flush of pink. They are pretty stiff, lance-shaped, concave towards the middle, measuring up to 32 inches (80 cm) long and 4 inches (10 cm) wide.
When in flower, which does not occur until the rosette is at least ten years old and often much later, Agave angustifolia 'Marginata' sends a spike with a well-branched panicle bearing greenish-white flowers and reaching up to 10 feet (3 m) in height.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Agaves are not difficult plants to grow. They are slow-growing and dramatic and will even thrive on a bit of neglect. If you are the type of person who likes to fuss with houseplants and water a lot, Agave is probably not the plant for you. If, however, you are the type of person who likes to set it and forget it, and you have a sunny window, Agave might be the way to go. Be aware that some large varieties will eventually outgrow your room (unless you have a large greenhouse), and Agave can be aggressive. They have irritating sap and sometimes very sharp thorns that can cause injuries to small children and even pets.
In general, Agaves do not need to be repotted every year. Most species commonly found in cultivation grow slowly and take long to outgrow their pot. It is also best to handle your plants as little as possible since they do not like to be disturbed. When repot, refresh the spent soil with a new potting mix and make sure the plant is firmly anchored in its pot. However, be careful not to pot the Agave too deep, as that will encourage stem rot during the growing season.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Agave.
Links
- Back to genus Agave
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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