Agave desmettiana 'Variegata'

While most agave species have the reputation for being extremely slow growers that need special growing conditions and are quick to draw blood and cries of pain when touched, Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’ is a virtually spineless and soft-leaved form suitable for many garden uses.

The habit and appearance of this incredible succulent make a bold statement and will give a garden instant tropical flair. Long, straplike leaves emerge from a central rosette. They arch and curve in such a fashion that it makes the plant look like an octopus. For foliage lovers, the thick leaves are light green, often with a light powdery-blue coating on top. Each leaf is edged with wide, horizontal bands of gold variegation that can catch one’s eye from a distance. While generally smooth and soft, each leaf culminates with a reddish-brown needle that can easily be cut off.

Growing smooth agaves

Variegated smooth agaves are extremely easy to grow and tend to act more like tropicals than fussy xeric desert plants. They prefer well-drained soil and will thrive in either full sun or dappled shade. In partial shade, the gold variegation tends to fade somewhat. Being fond of heat and humidity, plants quickly bulk up in size, especially if provided with ample water and a moderate amount of fertilizer on a regular basis. This is especially true when used in a container planting or treated as an annual mixed with other plants. You may be surprised to find how quickly you need to move your variegated smooth agave into a bigger container if you water it regularly.

Plenty of pups

Young plants in containers or in the garden as annuals generally reach 1 1/2 feet tall and wide in a season. In regions where the plant is hardy (USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11) it can be expected to grow 3 feet tall and wide. Older plants create flower stalks that can reach 10 feet tall. It will look like a giant asparagus stalk sitting atop the foliage. Flowers are quarter-dollar-sized and light yellow. Once the plant flowers, the mother plant will generally die. However, the side pups or divisions, of which there are generally many, can be collected to be used in the future.

For regions where the plant is fully hardy and where water is a precious commodity, the variegated smooth agave offers an excellent choice for more permanent drought-tolerant plantings. Once established, it will survive on little water, require little maintenance and have few pest and disease issues.

Specifics

Name: Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’

Common name: Smooth variegated agave.

Description: ‘Variegata’ differs from the species because its leaves are edged with wide, horizontal bands of gold.

Benefits: Great in xeriscape gardens. Acts like a tropical more than some of the fussier xeric plants. If given a lot of water and fertilizer, plants thrive.

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Hardiness: USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. Makes an outstanding annual in other regions.

- Erik Petersen, Silverton, Ore.