Butterfly agave - Agave potatorum (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Butterfly agave

Butterfly agave (Agave potatorum) is an evergreen perennial succulent that will grow to 61 cm tall. It forms a rosette with small, silvery-blue leaves. When the plant is about 10 years old it will produce a flower stalk that is 3 to 4.5 m tall with greenish-white flowers tinged with red. It thrives in full sun, hot conditions and well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Butterfly agave (Agave potatorum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

25 cm

Plant Height

40 cm

Spread

Green, Silver

Leaf Color

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Green, Yellow, Red

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Butterfly agave

Distribution Map

Butterfly agave is endemic to semi-arid highlands in the central part of the North American continent. Beyond its natural range, butterfly agave has expanded through cultivation to various arid and semi-arid regions globally, finding a niche particularly in subtropical and warm temperate areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Semi-arid highlands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Butterfly agave, including the following common varieties :

Butterfly agave 'Kissho Kan'

Toxicity

Butterfly agave poses moderate toxicity to humans, cats, and dogs. Contact or ingestion can cause skin irritation, allergic dermatitis, gastrointestinal distress, or severe symptoms. Handling butterfly agave requires caution to avoid face or eye contact, and it should be kept away from children and pets. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets show any signs of poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Butterfly agave

Broad gray leaves in a symmetrical rosette, 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall and 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) wide.

Chestnut brown spines along leaf edges, with a 1 inch (2.5 cm) long wavy terminal spine.

Leaf marginal spines on tubercle-like protrusions, giving a distinct appearance.

Thick, fleshy leaves with a greyish green color and cream-colored margin, 12-20 inches (30-50 cm) long.

Undulating edge with triangular spines in colors from greenish yellow to dark red, firm and waxy texture.

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Care Guide for Butterfly agave

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to arid conditions, butterfly agave thrives with minimal moisture and high drought tolerance. It stores water in succulent leaves, needing watering every three weeks. Overwatering is harmful, and butterfly agave is best grown outdoors as an evergreen that remains hydrated in challenging climates.

Fertilize: For butterfly agave, use balanced succulent food during spring and summer, applying a quarter-strength dose monthly. Avoid fertilization in fall and winter to respect dormancy. Water before feeding to prevent root burn, as over-fertilization can weaken growth. Remember, less is more for optimal health.

Pruning: As butterfly agave produces new leaves, older ones may yellow and dry. Prompt removal of these leaves enhances the plant's appearance. Additionally, trim any infected leaves to safeguard the health of the remaining foliage.

Propagation: Native to Mexico's semi-arid highlands, butterfly agave is a compact succulent with spiky leaves arranged in a rosette. Propagation is done by separating offsets with roots, allowing them to callous and planting in well-draining soil due to butterfly agave's aversion to excess moisture.

Repotting: Repot butterfly agave every 2 years in spring to support its moderate growth, using slightly larger pots with good drainage. After repotting, water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light to avoid shock and enhance vigor, mimicking its drought-tolerant habitat.

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