Scientific Name
Agave isthmensis 'Ohi Raijin Shiro Nakafu'
Synonym(s)
Agave isthmensis 'Mediopicta Alba'
Common Name(s)
Variegated Dwarf Butterfly Agave, White-centered Thunder Queen
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
Agave isthmensis 'Ohi Raijin Shiro Nakafu' is a rare variegated cultivar of Agave isthmensis likely selected in Japan as indicated by its cultivar epithet.
Description
Agave isthmensis 'Ohi Raijin Shiro Nakafu', also sold as Agave isthmensis 'Mediopicta Alba', is an attractive small succulent that forms rosettes of powdery blue-green leaves with broad cream midstripes. The rosettes can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm) and produce offsets from the leaf axils, forming a dense culm over time. The leaves have dark reddish-brown teeth along the margins and a sharp terminal spine.
How to Grow and Care for Agave isthmensis 'Ohi Raijin Shiro Nakafu'
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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 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 time to outgrow their pot. It's also best to handle your Agave as little as possible, since they do not like being 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
