Scientific Name
Agave atrovirens Karw. ex Salm-Dyck
Common Name(s)
Pulque Agave
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Description
Agave atrovirens is a large succulent that forms a dense rosette of smooth dark green leaves with small dark brown teeth, a terminal spine, and marked with gray bud imprints. It is the largest of all the Agaves. Leaves are up to 15 feet (4.5 m) long, up to 16 inches (40 cm) wide. From the center of the rosette, after many years, a panicle of flowers emerges on a long stalk. At first, the flower stalk looks like a vast stalk of asparagus, but later grows up to 40 feet (12.2 m) tall and develops side branches near the top and numerous flowers that open red and gradually turn yellow.
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 of the 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 injure small children and even pets.
In general, Agaves do not need to be repotted every year. Most of the species commonly found in cultivation grow very slowly and take a long time to outgrow their pot. It is also best to handle your plant 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.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Agave.
Origin
This species is native to Mexico.
Links
- Back to genus Agave
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
