Overview
Agave americana 'Variegata' is a tufted succulent in the genus Agave, part of the Asparagaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 7.5 m tall. Agave americana 'Variegata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental, xeriscaping and container planting. It is native to Mexico and United States (Texas).
About
Agave americana, commonly known as the century plant, maguey, or American aloe, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Asparagaceae. It is native to Mexico and the United States, specifically Texas.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Agave americana
About the genus
Agave is a genus of monocots native to the arid regions of the Americas. The genus is primarily known for its succulent and xerophytic species that typically form large rosettes of strong, fleshy leaves.
Wikipedia contributors, "Agave", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Agave
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Agave
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Agave americana 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 7.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental, Xeriscaping, Container planting
- Native to
- Mexico, United States (Texas)
- Toxicity
- Toxic sap
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Agave americana 'Variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established, avoid overwatering
- Pruning
- Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed
- Propagation
- Offsets (pups), seed
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects, Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Agave americana 'Variegata'?
Prefers well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established, avoid overwatering.
Where is the best place to plant Agave americana 'Variegata'?
Agave americana 'Variegata' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Agave americana 'Variegata' need?
Agave americana 'Variegata' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Agave americana 'Variegata'?
Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed.
How big does Agave americana 'Variegata' grow?
Agave americana 'Variegata' reaches a height of 7.5 m.
Is Agave americana 'Variegata' hardy in the UK?
Agave americana 'Variegata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Agave americana 'Variegata'?
Offsets (pups), seed.
Is Agave americana 'Variegata' toxic?
Toxic sap.