Scientific Name
Agave beauleriana Jacobi
Common Names
Majestic Agave
Synonyms
Agave franzosinii
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Description
Agave beauleriana is an attractive large succulent that usually forms a solitary rosette of powdery bluish-gray leaves that undulate and bend gracefully. The rosette grows up to 8 feet (2.4 m) tall and u10 feet (3 m) in diameter. Leaves have large teeth along the margins and a dark brown terminal spine. The underside of the lower portion of the leaves is often patterned with dark green where the glaucus covering was rubbed off from contact with older leaves which gives this part of the plant almost dark variegation. The mature rosette produces an inflorescence with yellow flowers, and after flowering, it dies.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 10b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Agave is not a difficult plant to grow. They're slow-growing and dramatic and will even thrive on a bit of neglect. If you're 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're 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 cause injuries to 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's also best to handle your Agave 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.
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
