Scientific Name
Agave 'Filigree'
Common Name(s)
Filigree Sierra Mixteca Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave titanota 'Filigree'
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Description
Agave 'Filigree' is a striking succulent that forms rosettes of very short, broad, gray-green leaves with a reddish-brown terminal spine and narrow recurved teeth along the margins. The rosettes slowly grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and up to 3 feet (90 cm) in diameter. Marginal spines emerge golden yellow and age to a gray-white. The leaf margins themselves age to the same color as the spines, which gives this plant a very distinctive look.
Origin
Agave 'Filigree' seems to have affinities with Agave titanota, which has very gray-colored leaves, but some speculate that it is a hybrid of Agave titanota or a form or hybrid of Agave horrida.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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. 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.
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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