Scientific Name
Agave stricta 'Rubra'
Common Name(s)
Purple Globe Agave, Purple Needle Leaf Agave, Red Hedgehog Agave, Red Needle Agave
Synonym(s)
Agave stricta f. rubra
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
Agave stricta 'Rubra' is a form of Agave stricta selected for its red foliage.
Description
Agave stricta 'Rubra' is an attractive slow-growing succulent that forms rosettes of narrow, spine-tipped leaves that take on a reddish coloration, especially with drought, heat, or cold stress. The rosettes can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm) in height, producing many offsets and creating a sizable colony. The leaves have tiny teeth along the margins, which are more rough than sharp to the touch.
The flowers are small, green to reddish-brown or purple, and borne in usually erect racemes that can grow up to 6.6 feet (2 m) tall in summer. Most Agaves are monocarpic, but this plant is polycarpic, meaning the rosettes can flower several times.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8b to 11b: from 15 °F (−9.4 °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 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 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.
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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