Agave filifera (Thread Leaf Agave)

Scientific Name

Agave filifera Salm-Dyck

Common Names

Thread Leaf Agave, Thread Agave

Synonyms

Agave filamentosa, Agave filifera subsp. filifera

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave

Description

Agave filifera is an eye-catching succulent that forms compact, stemless rosettes of dark green leaves with very ornamental white bud imprints. The rosettes grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and up to 3 feet (90 cm) in diameter. Flowers are yellowish-green to dark purple, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, and borne in spikes on erect stems up to 11.5 feet (3.5 m) tall.

Agave filifera - Thread Leaf Agave — *Photo via wikipedia.org*

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 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 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 as that will encourage stem rot during the growing season.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Agave.