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Agave desmettiana · Asparagaceae

Smooth Agave

⚠️ Not safe for petsPerennial, remaining green throughout the year.50 to 100 cm
Full sunLow; water sparingly.EasyDoes not tolerate temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius.

Description & origin

Agave desmettiana is a perennial succulent with arching green leaves and smooth edges. It is ideal for low-maintenance gardens and tolerates heat and drought well.

Size

Can reach up to 100 cm in height and 120 cm in width in domestic cultivation.

Foliage

Perennial foliage that maintains its green color year-round.

Flowering

This species does not produce flowers in domestic cultivation.

Detailed care

Light

Prefers full sun for optimal growth.

Soil

Needs well-drained soil, ideally sandy or rocky.

Watering

Requires sparse watering, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

Temperature

Does not tolerate temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius.

Fertilising

Fertilize once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Repotting

Transplant when offsets are large enough to be separated.

Pruning

Remove dry or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.

Propagation

Easily propagated by offsets that appear at the base of the mother plant.

Common problems

Root rot

Occurs in poorly drained soils or with excessive watering.

Sunburn

Can occur if the plant is exposed to intense sun without acclimation.

Mealybug infestation

Insects that can be removed manually or with appropriate pesticides.

Uses & curiosities

In the garden

  • Low-maintenance gardens
  • Sculptural landscaping
  • Succulent gardens

Other uses

Ideal for low-maintenance gardens due to its drought resistance.

Did you know…

This plant is native to Mexico and is often used in landscaping due to its sculptural form.