Scientific Name
Agave bracteosa 'Mediopicta Alba'
Common Name(s)
Candelabrum Agave, Spider Agave, Squid Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave bracteosa f. mediopicta alba
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
This succulent is a cultivar of Agave bracteosa with variegated foliage.
Description
Agave bracteosa 'Mediopicta Alba' is a gorgeous succulent that forms rosettes of narrow, toothless, yellowish-green leaves with a broad creamy-white central stipe. The leaves emerge upright in the center and arch gracefully back towards the outside of the rosette. They have tiny serrations along the margins but no teeth or spine at the end. The rosettes grow up to 1.5 feet (45 cm) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter, producing a few offsets to form a small clump.
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. However, if 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 a long 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 you do 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, encouraging 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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