This small variety of Agave has striking colour with its stripes of blue-green and cream. Each leaf almost looks like a striped petal, and the whole plant kind of has the effect of an unusually-coloured rose. Except that here, the spikes are on the 'petals' - well, the succulent's leaves. Its Latin name means 'Agave of the drinkers', maybe in reference to the alcoholic drinks made from Agave plants in their native Mexico. This plant won't take up much space in your home (growing to only about 12cm/5" in diameter) or in your watering schedule. Pop it in a bright window and let the soil dry out between waters and this plant will show its appreciation by giving you more stunning striped leaves.
Scientific Name
Agave potatorum variegata 'Ouhi-Raijin' (admirable plant, belonging to the drinkers, variety: variegated, cultivar: Ouhi-Raijin)
Common Name
Butterfly Agave, Blue Rose
Origin
Native to Mexico, especially semi-arid highland areas.
Light
This plant loves sun, so make sure it's somewhere in bright, preferably direct, light. It can even go outdoors in a sunny spot in summer!
Water
Let the soil completely dry out between waters- this will be at least a week in summer, and longer in winter.
Humidity
This plant is adapted to arid environments, so don't keep it anywhere too damp! A hose down every now and again will help keep its leaves free of dust, though.
Soil
Use a well-draining soil mix; one with added sand and grit, such as a soil designed for cacti & succulents, will work well here. Repot every two or three years in spring; Agaves are happy to be pot-bound, even with pups growing right next to the parent plant, so only repot if totally necessary, or if you're separating the pups.
Food
Feed every two months throughout the year with a weak feed or specific cactus feed.
Temperature
Ideally likes temperatures of 18-25°C in summer. This plant can be grown outdoors most of the year in well-draining soil, and can stand temperatures down to -3°C; in most areas it will need winter protection so it doesn't totally freeze.
Pet-safe
No, this plant can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs if large amounts are eaten.
Sprouts Top Tips
The most common issue with Agaves is overwatering, so make sure you are leaving it plenty of time to totally dry out between waters. If your plant's stem starts to feel squishy and look yellow, it needs to dry out straight away! If it's pale in the centre and the growth is deformed, give it more light; it needs at least an hour of direct sun a day, especially in winter.
Did you know?
In Mexico, Agaves are used to make mezcal, and almost any type can be used!
