Agave neomexicana 'Sunspot'

Common Name: New Mexico Agave

This small scale Agave is a yellow margined sport of A. neomexicana, a well-known cold hardy plant native to Texas and New Mexico. Dark blue-green glaucous leaves have creamy yellow margins and form a rigid rosette only about one foot tall. A 1½" long brown terminal spine extends from each leaf, and very well-defined spines also line the margins. ‘Sunspot’ is presumed to be more tender than its hardy parent. From David Salman of High Country Gardens.

The common name "Century Plant" is alluding to the belief that it takes 100 years to bloom. In reality, Agaves bloom after 15-20 years, and the main crown dies after blooming.

Height:

10.0-12.0 Inches

Spread:

15.0-18.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

7(B),8,9,10

Foliage Color:

Green shades Variegated

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Low Water Needs Average Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Poor Soil Quality Average Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0) Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Critter Resistant:

Deer Resistant Rabbit Resistant

Growth Rate:

Slow

Garden Style:

Patio Container Eclectic Formal Modern Rock Garden

Other Features:

Container Drought Tolerant Attractive Foliage Small

Origin:

Native to North America

Agave is a tender perennial or "temperennial" succulent plant that grows best in full sun. Light afternoon shade is recommended in the hottest parts of the country. Plant in well-drained, dry to average soil in containers just slightly wider than the width of the rosette or plant directly in the ground. In summer when the plants are actively growing, they appreciate a bit of supplemental watering and half-strength fertilizer. They should be grown dry in winter. Agave is a slower grower, so it will not quickly overtake the space it is allotted in the landscape.

Characteristics