Variegated Caribbean Agave, Narrow Century Plant, Agave vivipara 'Marginata'
Agave angustifolia var. marginata, also known as Caribbean Agave, is a visually striking plant, known for its variegated foliage and large size. It’s an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that adds a dramatic element to the landscape.
This Agave variety is noted for its striking, sword-shaped leaves and bold variegation. It forms a large, symmetrical rosette, making it a dramatic addition to any landscape.
Native: It’s native to Mexico and Central America, adapted to arid and semi-arid climates.
Plant Type and Habit: Caribbean Agave is a perennial succulent with a rosette growth habit. It typically grows as a solitary plant but may produce offsets.
Size: The plant can reach about 3-4 feet in height (90-120 cm) and spread up to 4-6 feet wide (120-180 cm), with leaves that can grow several feet long.
Flowers: It produces a very tall flower spike, up to 10 feet (3 meters), with numerous greenish-yellow flowers. However, flowering is infrequent and often occurs once in the plant’s lifetime. Flowering generally happens after many years of growth, often when the plant is over a decade old. After flowering, it produces capsule-like fruits containing seeds. The parent plant typically dies after flowering.
Foliage: The leaves are long, narrow, and stiff, with creamy white edges and a green center. They have thin marginal teeth along the margins and a conical terminal spine at the tips.
Uses: Commonly used in xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as an ornamental plant in large containers. Its striking appearance is well-suited for focal points in gardens.
Hardiness: It’s hardy in USDA zones 9-11, preferring warm, dry climates.
Toxicity: The sap of Agave plants can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested.
Wildlife: Attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds during its rare blooming period.
Deer and Rabbit: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits due to its tough, spiny foliage.
Drought: Highly drought-tolerant, requiring minimal water, making it suitable for arid environments and water-wise gardening.
Invasiveness: Not considered invasive but should be planted with care due to its sharp spines and large size at maturity.
Benefits: Offers architectural interest with its bold foliage and variegation. It’s low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it suitable for water-wise gardening.
Light: Thrives in full sun, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Can tolerate partial shade but may grow slower.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil, preferably a cactus or succulent mix. Avoid soil that retains moisture for extended periods.
Water: Water sparingly; the soil should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter during the plant’s dormant period.
Fertilizer: Use a diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer designed for succulents during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilize sparingly; over-fertilization can lead to weak, spindly growth.
Pruning: Generally requires little to no pruning. Remove dead or damaged leaves as necessary, using protective gloves.
Propagation: Propagate by offsets or “pups” that grow around the base of the plant. Remove pups in spring or early summer and plant in well-draining soil.
Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests like mealybugs, aphids, or scale insects. Susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions. proper soil and watering are crucial.
Hardiness |
9 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents |
Plant Family | Asparagaceae |
Genus | Agave |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spread | 4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm) |
Spacing | 48" - 72" (120cm - 180cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil, Deer, Rabbit |
Attracts | Bees, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden |
Hardiness |
9 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents |
Plant Family | Asparagaceae |
Genus | Agave |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spread | 4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm) |
Spacing | 48" - 72" (120cm - 180cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil, Deer, Rabbit |
Attracts | Bees, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden |
How many Agave angustifolia var. marginata (Caribbean Agave) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
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Agave angustifolia var. marginata (Caribbean Agave) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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