Scientific Name
Agave stricta Salm-Dyck
Common Name(s)
Globe Agave, Hedgehog Agave, Hedgehog Century Plant, Needle Agave, Needle-leaf Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave striata f. stricta, Agave striata subsp. stricta, Agave striata var. stricta, Agave striata var. stricta, Bonapartea stricta
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
Agave stricta is native to Mexico. It occurs in Tehuacán Valley in the states of Puebla and Oaxaca.
Description
Agave stricta is a slow-growing succulent that forms rosettes of narrow, dark green leaves with tiny teeth along the margins and a sharp terminal spine. The rosettes can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter and produce many offsets, creating a sizable colony. The leaves are square to nearly round in cross-section. The marginal teeth are more rough than sharp to the touch.
The mature rosettes, 8 to 10 years old, produce a usually erect raceme of small, green to reddish-brown or purple flowers in summer. The raceme can grow up to 7 feet (2.1 m) tall. Most Agaves are monocarpic, but Agave stricta is polycarpic, meaning the rosette can flower several times.
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. On the other hand, if 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 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 very slowly and will 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 you repot, refresh the spent soil with a new potting mix and ensure 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.
Forms and Cultivars
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.
