Scientific Name
Agave valenciana Cházaro & A.Vázquez
Common Name(s)
Giant Mezcal Agave
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave
Origin
Agave valenciana is endemic to a small section of the canyons of the Mascota and Talpa rivers in the Jalisco state of Mexico.
Description
Agave valenciana is an amazing giant succulent that forms a solitary rosette of dark green, slightly glaucous leaves. The rosette can grow up to 7.2 feet (2 m) tall and up to 13.5 feet (4.1 m) in diameter. The leaves are broadly lance-shaped with sharp marginal teeth and a terminal spine, reaching up to 7.5 feet (2.3 m) long and up to 1.7 feet (53 cm) wide.
The flowers are yellow, up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long, and appear in clusters on a spectacular inflorescence that can reach up to 25 feet (7.5 m) tall, usually in late spring. The rosette dies after flowering.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Agave is not a difficult plant 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, however, 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 Agave as little as possible since they dislike being 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, 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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