Scientific Name
Agave mitis Mart.
Synonym(s)
Agave celsii, Agave micracantha var. mitis
Common Name(s)
Mitis Agave, Mitis Century Plant
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Etymology
The specific epithet "mitis" (pronounced "MIT-iss") means "mild," "gentle," or "soft". It refers to the relatively mild, less aggressive leaf armature of this species compared with that of many other Agaves.
Origin
Agave mitis is native to Mexico. It occurs on limestone outcrops in Hidalgo, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, and Nuevo León.
Description
Agave mitis, also known as Agave celsii, is an ornamental succulent that forms rosettes of fleshy, blue-green to yellow-green leaves that gracefully curve upwards. The rosettes can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall, producing offsets around the base. The leaves can measure up to 2 feet (60 cm) long and 2.4 inches (6 cm) wide, and have soft terminal spines and tiny, backward-curving, brown spines along the margins.
The mature rosettes produce an erect flowering stalk with green flowers closely appressed to the stalk, forming a narrow column that is much more compact than in most other species. In addition, they produce numerous bulbils on the inflorescence. The flower stalk can grow up to 8 feet (2.4 m) tall, while the leaves can measure up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) long.
Forms of Agave mitis
- Agave mitis var. albidior (not accepted as a separate variety and is treated as a synonym of Agave mitis)
Hybrids of Agave mitis
How to Grow and Care for Agave mitis
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°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
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