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Agave salmiana

Accession Count: 3
Common Name: giant agave
Family Name: Asparagaceae
Botanical Name: Agave salmiana
Synonyms:
Family Synonyms: Agavaceae
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics: Agave salmiana is a perennial succulent that can reach a height as great as 4 meters. Plants are stemless, developing rosettes of 25-30 fleshy, green and white-tinted leaves, which are serrated with spines, and sharply tipped (1, 2). Strongly scented yellow flowers develop once every 15-20 years, forming a 13-foot stalk (2). The candelabra inflorescence eventually forms a pod containing darkly colored seeds (3), and the monocarpic agave dies soon after flowering (4).
Compound: Aga sal
Geographic Origin: Mexico
Ecozone Origin:
Biome Origin:
Natural History: Agave salmiana was originally harvested in central Mexico for the commercial production of mezcal, tequila created from agaves. During this time, A. salmiana became utilized in North and South America as an ornamental plant, due to its great durability. A common name for A. salmiana, Century Plant, became applied for the long life-span, which can extend as long as 80 years (5). The Giant Agave has been important in both ancient and modern Mesoamerican societies. It may have been discovered by the Mayan people as early as 600 CE, and used to make a fermented beverage called “pulque”. In the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors fully domesticated the agave, and since, it has been used ornamentally and in the production of tequilas and mezcals (6).
Cultivation Notes: A. Salmiana tolerates a variety of soil conditions, but prefers that soil be well-draining. Only plant in direct sunlight or partial shade, as death occurs in full shade (7). A light frost can be tolerated, but only if the soil is kept dry (4). Propagation is possible through seeds, cuttings, and offshoots. Adventitious roots will create pups from the mother plant, which can be removed or left to create a colony. When removing pups from the roots, new stems will develop in 2-3 weeks. If propagating from seed, keep soil moist, and humidity high by placing within a greenhouse or plastic bag (8).
Ethnobotany: Aside from the use of Agave salmiana in pulque and other fermented drinks, it has been valued for many purposes. The durable tissue within the leaves of Agave salmiana has been used to create ropes, nets, sandals, and mats, while also allowing for the creation of bows and nets. Young leaves provide suitable fiber to manufacture laces and other articles of clothing (6). From the sharp spines along each leaf, sewing needles can be constructed. The thick stem at the base of the leaves, considered the “heart”, is rich in carbohydrates, and can be roasted and consumed (9). Once cut into sections, the flowering stem can be chewed as a replacement for sugar-cane, and the young cuticles of central spikes are used as a translucent wrapping for the Mexican festival dish called “mixiote” (6). Even the roots of Agave salmiana, which contain saponins, have value and can be substituted for soap.
Height: 6 - 10 feet
Width: 6 - 10 feet
Growth Rate: Fast Growing
Grow Season:
Flower Season: Summer
Color: Yellow
Function: Accent
Spread: Spreading
Allergen: Non-allergenic
Invasive: Benign
Toxicity: Toxic
Hardy: Tender
Water Use: Low water Use
Citations:

       1. Horticulture Unlimited. Retrieved April 18th, 2020.

       2. Plant Care Today. Retrieved April 18th, 2020.

       3. AAGP Mexicos Agave. Retrieved March 30, 2020.

       4. iNaturalist. Retrieved April 18th, 2020.

       5. NCBI National Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health. Retrieved March 30, 2020.

       6. ThoughtCo Social Sciences. Retrieved March 30, 2020.

       7. Plants for a Future. Retrieved April 18th, 2020.

       8. Homeguides Propagation. Retrieved March 30, 2020.

       9. JSTOR Economic Botany. Retrieved March 30,2020.

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Agave salmiana