Scientific Name
Agave bracteosa 'Monterrey Frost'
Common Name(s)
Frosted Candelabrum Agave, Variegated Octopus Agave, Variegated Squid Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave bracteosa f. marginata alba
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
This succulent is a variegated cultivar of Agave bracteosa.
Description
Agave bracteosa 'Monterrey Frost' is a beautiful succulent that forms rosettes of narrow, arching, pale green leaves with wide creamy white margins. The rosettes grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall and 1.5 feet (45 cm) in diameter, producing offsets around the base as they age. Leaves are pliable, with a sandpapery texture, and unarmed.
The mature rosettes produce an up to 5 foot (1.5 m) tall spike that bears small pale yellow to cream-colored flowers, usually in summer. They die after flowering.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 8a to 11b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °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. However, if you want 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 very slowly and will take a long 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 you do repot, refresh the spent soil with a new potting mix and make sure the plant is firmly anchored in its pot.
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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