Agave 'Tradewinds'

Scientific Name

Agave 'Tradewinds'

Synonym(s)

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave

Description

Agave 'Tradewinds' is a small variegated succulent that forms rosettes of blue-gray leaves bordered in creamy white and armed with maroon marginal teeth and a long terminal spine. The rosettes grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter, freely offsetting to form a dense clump.

Flowering has not been observed to date

Origin

Agave 'Tradewinds' is a hybrid of unknown parentage, probably a sister seedling of Agave 'Kissho Kan'.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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 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, encouraging stem rot during the growing season.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Agave.

Photo Gallery

Click on a photo to see a larger version.