Agave mapisaga

Scientific Name

Agave mapisaga

Synonym(s)

Agave mapisaga var. mapisaga, Agave mapisaga var. lisa, Agave salmiana var. angustifolia, Agave salmiana var. recurvata

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave

Description

Agave mapisaga is a large succulent that forms rosettes of thick gray-green spiny leaves. The rosettes grow up to 8.2 feet (2.5 m) tall and 14.8 feet (4.5 m) in diameter. The leaves are up to 8.2 feet (2.5 m) long, up to 1 foot (30 cm) wide, rough to the touch, and arch upwards. They have few teeth along the margins and a large dark brown terminal spine. Mature rosette produces an up to 30 feet (9.1 m) tall flower spike, holding lateral peduncles of yellow flowers.

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 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 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.

Origin

This species is native to Mexico.

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