Scientific Name
Agave bracteosa S.Watson ex Engelm.
Common Name(s)
Candelabrum Agave, Spider Agave, Squid Agave
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Description
Agave bracteosa is a slow-growing succulent that forms rosettes of spineless, pale green leaves. The rosettes grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall and up to 18 inches (45 cm) in diameter. Leaves emerge vertically in the center and arch gracefully back towards the outside of the rosette. Mature rosette sends up an unbranched, up to 5 foot (1.5 m) tall spike that bears a dense terminal cluster of white flowers, distinctive from all other Agaves. After flowering, the rosette slowly dies, but younger suckers perpetuate the plant.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8a to 11b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °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 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 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 (Tamaulipas, Coahuila, and Nuevo León).
Cultivars
Links
- Back to genus Agave
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
