×Mangave 'Spotty Dotty'

Scientific Name

×Mangave 'Spotty Dotty'

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Nothogenus: ×Mangave

Origin

×Mangave 'Spotty Dotty' is a patented hybrid (PP29917) created by Hans A. Hansen at a wholesale nursery in Zeeland, Michigan, United States. It results from a cross involving three North American natives: Agave gypsophila, Agave bovicornuta, and Manfreda maculosa (now Agave maculata).

Description

×Mangave 'Spotty Dotty' (now Agave 'Spotty Dotty') is an attractive succulent that forms rosettes of medium green leaves densely covered with small reddish-purple spots. The rosettes can reach up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall and 3 feet (90 cm) in diameter. The leaves are long, broad, and slightly wavy, with semi-flexible marginal teeth and a terminal spine, measuring up to 17 inches (43 cm) long and 3.6 inches (9 cm) wide.

The flowers have not yet been observed to date.

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. 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 plants 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.