Agave desmettiana variegata is native to Mexico and has been in cultivation for centuries, but this small agave is a favorite for residential landscapes. Growing in an upright manner, the symmetrical rosette has recurved leaves that create an elegant urn-like or architectural form that is most appealing. Agave desmettiana variegata’s foliage is evergreen, with yellowish to medium green or greyish to bluish-green leaves that have a yellow border on the margins.
Agave desmettiana variegata has fewer spines and softer leaves than most agaves, and the leaves are fleshy, thick and smooth, with very tiny marginal thorns and brownish apical spines.
At about 8-10 years of age, this monocarpic agave will produce a thick green flowering stalk, which emerges from the center of the plant and grows 8-10 feet in height, bearing panicles of bright yellow blooms. The flower spike lasts for several weeks to months, with the flowers at the base opening first.
Agave desmettiana variegata does well in cactus and succulent gardens, containers and is also a nice plant for xeriscape plantings and borders.
Agave desmettiana variegata is resistant to deer and rabbits, but young leaves can be damaged by snails. Agave desmettiana and probably many other variegated agves are vulnerable to weevils. A regular systemic program is recommended for gardens with lots of agaves. Agave desmettiana variegtata is bulbiferous which means that after flowering it will produce many bulbils along the shaft of the flower. Some bulbils will be all white and some will be all green. Discard these and save the mixed ones that will produce a good variegate.There is a minimum purchase of any 4 plants for online orders. All plants shipped bare root. Other sizes may be available for pick up from our growing grounds in Fallbrook, CA. For more information, give us a call at 760-990-4762.
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