Scientific Name
Agave 'Kissho Kan'
Common Name(s)
Lucky Crown Century Plant, Dwarf Variegated Butterfly Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave potatorum 'Kicchiokan', Agave potatorum 'Kichijokan', Agave potatorum 'Kissho Kan', Agave potatorum 'Kichiokan Marginata', Agave potatorum 'Variegata', Agave 'Kichiokan'
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
Agave 'Kissho Kan' is a magnificent Japanese selection.
Description
Agave 'Kissho Kan' is an attractive succulent that forms a symmetrical, usually solitary rosette of blue-green to gray-green leaves with creamy white margins. The rosette can grow up to 16 inches (40 cm) tall and 18 inches (45 cm) in diameter. The leaves are thick, soft, and rigid, with sharp, dark cinnamon teeth along the margins and end in a terminal spine.
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 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 sharp thorns that can injure small children and pets.
In general, Agaves do not need to be repotted every year. Most species commonly found in cultivation grow slowly and take long to outgrow their pot. It is also best to handle your plants 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. However, be careful not to pot the Agave too deep to encourage stem rot during the growing season.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Agave.
Forms
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
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