Accession Count: 16
Common Name:
Desmettiana agave
Family Name:
Asparagaceae
Botanical Name:
Agave desmettiana
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
A. desmettiana has dark green, glaucous, linear-lanceolate shaped leaves that reach up to thirty centimeters long with spines that are almost one-fourth of an inch long. It is considered a winter evergreen and most often functions as an accent plant.
Compound:
Aga des
Geographic Origin:
Eastern Mexico
Ecozone Origin:
Nearctic
Biome Origin:
MX
Natural History:
This agave species has been cultivated for centuries (1). They originated in the subtropics of eastern Mexico (1) and are now grown for ornamental purposes (2). Most believe that the smooth agave is part of the cactus family when in fact it is more closely related to lilies (5). The plant does not reproduce through seeds or capsules but rather by vegetative means (2). It is most commonly found in sandy places or along roadsides (2). The Smooth Agave is one of the few “ people friendly” agaves. It is a smaller and more formal version of most agaves (1).
Cultivation Notes:
The A. desmettiana agave is a really beautiful plant for patios or pool areas where lush but low water plants are desired and there is partial shade. It has distinct upright, urn-shaped rosettes. Most plants lack teeth on the leaf margin, making them relatively safe for populated places. They are a very low maintenance, stunning contrast plant.
Ethnobotany:
The Native Americans commonly used the agave leaves for food and fiber (3). The meristem and leaf base of the agave has been used to produce Mescal and tequila (3). The leaves of the plant can be beaten to make a foamy like substance similar to soap (5). The leaves can also be cooked to produce a bland but fulfilling meal (5). The flowers found on the agave are also quite nutritious (5). Many like to use the plant as an ornamental touch throughout their landscaping. These plants are commonly found among highways as decorative touches (5).
Height:
0 - 5 feet
Width:
0 - 5 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Spring
Flower Season:
Spring
Color:
Yellow
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Semi-hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
