Scientific Name
Agave salmiana 'Green Giant'
Common Name(s)
Giant Agave
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Description
Agave salmiana 'Green Giant' is an impressive succulent that forms rosettes of graceful, dark gray-green leaves decorated with strong teeth on the edges and ending in a large terminal spine. The rosettes can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall and nearly equal in diameter, producing numerous offsets around the base.
Mature rosettes produce a candelabra-like inflorescence that rises to over 20 feet (6 m), bearing dense clusters of small, yellow flowers.
Origin
Agave salmiana 'Green Giant' is a cultivar of Agave salmiana that has long been identified as Agave salmiana var. ferox.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 8a to 11b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °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 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 to outgrow their pot. It's also best to handle your Agave as little as possible since they dislike being disturbed.
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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