Scientific Name
Agave univittata 'Quadricolor'
Common Name(s)
Quadricolor Century Plant
Synonym(s)
Agave kerchovei 'Pectinata', Agave lophantha "Goshikibandai', Agave lophantha 'Quadricolor'
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Description
Agave univittata 'Quadricolor', also known as Agave lophantha 'Quadricolor', is an attractive succulent that forms rosettes of dark green leaves with yellow edges and a pale green midstripe. The rosettes grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall and up to 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter, slowly producing offsets around the base and forming a clump. The leaves are lance-shaped with margins lined with dark reddish teeth and a small terminal spine. The yellow marginal stripes take on a red hue in full sun, giving the leaves four distinct colors.
Flowering has not been observed to date.
Origin
Agave univittata 'Quadricolor' is a variegated cultivar of Agave univittata.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °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. 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 injure small children and 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 is also best to handle your plant as little as possible since they do not like to be disturbed. When repot, refresh the spent soil with a new potting mix and ensure the plant is firmly anchored in its pot. However, do not pot the Agave too deep, encouraging stem rot during the growing season.
Learn 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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