Dreadlocks Mangave, MAD ABOUT MANGAVE® Collection
Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is a versatile and visually striking plant that offers numerous benefits for gardeners looking to add a unique and whimsical element to their landscapes. Its distinctive appearance, combined with its low maintenance needs and adaptability, make it a standout choice for a variety of garden settings. Whether used as a focal point in a rock garden, a striking addition to a succulent border, or a dramatic feature in a container, Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is sure to capture attention and admiration.
Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is an intriguing and unique hybrid succulent that combines the robust characteristics of Agave with the more delicate features of Manfreda. This plant is particularly known for its long, narrow, and undulating leaves that resemble the dreadlocks hairstyle, giving it a wild and untamed appearance. The foliage displays a captivating mix of green and mahogany tones, with the colors becoming more intense when exposed to bright sunlight. The unusual form and striking coloration of Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ make it a standout in any garden or container setting.
Native: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is not naturally occurring in the wild, as it is a cultivated hybrid. Its parent plants, Agave and Manfreda, are native to the arid and semi-arid regions of North and Central America, particularly Mexico and the southwestern United States. It belongs to the asparagus family (Asparagaceae), along with agaves and hostas.
Plant Type and Habit: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is a perennial succulent with a rosette-forming habit. The plant grows in a somewhat loose, sprawling manner, with its long, curling leaves extending outward from the center. This growth habit gives the plant a distinctive, free-spirited look that adds a touch of whimsy to garden landscapes and containers.
Size: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ typically reaches a height of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) and spreads 36 to 40 inches (90 to 100 cm) wide.
Foliage: The foliage of Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is its most distinctive feature. The leaves are long, narrow, and undulating. They are primarily dark green but heavily speckled with mahogany spots, most concentrated at the center of the leaf. The darkest coloration appears in full sun and under UV light. This coloration adds depth and interest to the plant’s appearance.
Uses: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is primarily used as an ornamental plant. Its unique appearance makes it a standout choice for rock gardens, succulent gardens, and borders. It also performs well in containers, allowing for versatile placement in patios, balconies, and indoor spaces. The plant’s low maintenance requirements and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Hardiness: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 and thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It prefers warm climates and should be protected from frost.
Toxicity: Like many members of the Agave family, Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ contains sap that can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. It is advisable to handle the plant with care, wearing gloves to avoid contact with the sap. Pets (dogs, cats): harmful if eaten.
Deer and Rabbit: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits.
Drought: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is highly drought-tolerant, an essential trait inherited from its Agave parentage. The plant stores water in its thick leaves, allowing it to survive prolonged periods without rainfall. It thrives in dry, well-draining soil and requires minimal supplemental watering once established.
Invasiveness: Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is not considered invasive. It grows slowly and remains relatively contained within its planting area. While it can produce offsets, these can be easily managed or transplanted to new locations.
Benefits: The primary benefits of Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ include its unique and attractive appearance, low maintenance requirements, and adaptability to various garden settings. The plant’s drought tolerance makes it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening. Additionally, Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ is resistant to deer and rabbits, reducing the likelihood of damage from these animals.
Light: Prefers full sun. Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as cactus or succulent mix. Adding sand or perlite can improve drainage.
Water: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizer: Feed with a diluted, balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth.
Pruning: Pruning is not necessary. Remove any dead or damaged parts as needed.
Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-resistant but watch for pests like mealybugs or scale insects. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
Hardiness |
9 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents |
Plant Family | Asparagaceae |
Genus | Mangave |
Common names | Mangave |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 10" - 1' (25cm - 30cm) |
Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spacing | 36" - 40" (90cm - 100cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral, Alkaline |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil, Deer, Rabbit |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden |
Hardiness |
9 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents |
Plant Family | Asparagaceae |
Genus | Mangave |
Common names | Mangave |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 10" - 1' (25cm - 30cm) |
Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spacing | 36" - 40" (90cm - 100cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral, Alkaline |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil, Deer, Rabbit |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden |
How many Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
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Mangave ‘Dreadlocks’ | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
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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