Species American agave
Magenta flowers and stem, green leaves.

American agave

Manfreda virginica

American agave (Manfreda virginica) is a perennial succulent native to the eastern and southern United States and northern Mexico. It grows up to 2–3 feet in height and spreads up to 4 feet across. Its thick, arising leaves radiating outward from the centre, form a crown with a rosette pattern. Its sharp, spined margins give it a starburst effect, while its glossy, grey-green to blue-green color provides a spectacular display. It is drought tolerant and self-sustaining, making it an ideal choice for xeriscape landscaping. American agave can bloom in one to five years, depending on the variety, and yield spectacular, ivory-white flower stalks up to 4 feet tall. Its robust nature and slow-growing habit make it a great addition to any landscape.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Offsets,Seed Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Yellow-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

American Agave should be watered infrequently, only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. During the growing season, this plant should be watered around once every 2 weeks. During the winter months, however, you should only water your American Agave every few months or so; keep an eye on the plant and water it when the soil is looking dry. In general, you should be sure to water the soil near the base of the plant and not the leaves, as too much water on the leaves can cause them to rot. Additionally, make sure to water thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil.

sunlight

American Agave (Manfreda virginica) should be placed in an area with direct sunlight for at least 8-10 hours a day. This plant does best in full sun, though it can handle partial sun. When grown outdoors in full sun, it should be placed in a location where it is not shaded by trees, buildings, or other plants. When grown indoors, it should be placed in a sunny window or under horticultural lights. American Agave prefers to have temperatures above 55°F (13°C) and is drought tolerant. This plant should be watered sparsely, as it stores water in its thick leaves and prefers drier soil.

pruning

American agave (Manfreda virginica) should be pruned in late spring or early summer, just before immature flower stalks emerge. The objective of pruning is to maintain a neat appearance and promote the plant’s overall health. When pruning, it is important to cut back only the top third of the plant. It is not necessary, and even detrimental, to prune the plant right down to the ground. Doing so will in fact reduce the lifespan of the plant. Removing the dead flower head can also be beneficial, as this will encourage branching, and thus create a more attractive, fuller plant. It is important to remember to wear protective gloves when pruning, as the spines of the American agave can cause skin irritation.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Manfreda virginica typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Manfreda virginica typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map