Agave chiapensis or Agave teopiscana

Care of the succulent plant Agave chiapensis or Agave teopiscana

The Agave genus, a subfamily of the Agavoideae, comprises some 300 species of succulent plants native to Mexico, Central America and the Southwest of the USA. Some species are: Agave bracteosa, Agave attenuata, Agave americana, Agave stricta, Agave potatorum, Agave victoria-reginae, Agave striata, Agave impressa, Agave deserti, Agave chiapensis, Agave palmeri, Agave vivipiara, Agave ferox, Agave filifera, Agave macroacantha, Agave sisalana, Agave guadalajarana, Agave ferdinandi-regis, Agave shawii, Agave parrasana, Agave parryi, Agave angustifolia, Agave vilmoriniana, Agave univittata, Agave lechuguilla, Agave datylio.

Scientific synonyms: Agave teopiscana, Agave polyacantha. This species is native to the state of Chiapas, Mexico.

Agave chiapensis is a relatively fast-growing succulent plant that reaches 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The attractive, broad, deep green leaves have black spines on the margin. It produces long inflorescences up to 2 meters (6.56 feet) high with yellow and purple flowers. It blooms in spring and summer; the mother plant dies but before that it produces shoots at the base.

Agave teopiscana is used in borders, rockeries, cactus and succulent gardens, as isolated specimens and in pots for patios and terraces. It is not recommended to grow in passageways due to its spines.

Agave chiapensis prefers full sun exposure but can also grow in semi-shade. It resists light and occasional frosts.

Agave polyacantha needs a sandy or stony soil with excellent drainage.

Always water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. In winter, water very little.

Fertilize once in spring and again in summer with a slow-release cactus fertilizer.

Agave chiapensis does not need pruning.

This plant does not present serious problems with pests and diseases if there is no excess humidity.

Agave teopiscana propagates from seeds sown in spring in a sandy substrate.