ExplorePlants

Agave

Agave americana

Agave plants are tough succulents with thick, spiky leaves that store water. They grow in hot, dry places like deserts and have beautiful flowers that attract bees and hummingbirds.

Habitat: Desert

Appearance

The Agave has a large, striking rosette of thick, fleshy, blue-green to grayish-green leaves that can reach several feet across. Its sword-shaped leaves often curve slightly upwards, ending in a sharp, dark spine and edged with smaller teeth, giving it a formidable appearance distinct from most succulents.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyAsparagaceaeGenusAgave
Agave
flowering trait badgenitrogen_fixing trait badgeevergreen trait badgefragrant_flower trait badge
Agave

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Historically, Native Americans used tough Agave fibers to make ropes, sandals, and even sturdy cloth!

Its nickname, 'Century Plant,' refers to how long it takes to bloom, though it's usually less than 100 years!

The roasted 'heart' of the Agave plant, similar to an artichoke, was once a vital food source!

The sap from some Agave species is fermented to create traditional drinks like pulque and even tequila!

Special abilities

Ability

Water Storage Tank

Agave stores water in its thick leaves, allowing it to thrive in extremely dry desert environments for many months.

Ability

Spiky Armor

Tough, spiky leaves and a needle-sharp tip defend the Agave from most hungry animals seeking a meal.

Ability

Slow Power-Up

Agave collects energy for decades to grow one gigantic flower stalk, then produces seeds and dies.

Ability

Clone Creator

Agave can grow 'pups' or baby plants from its base, allowing it to quickly spread and form new colonies.

Measurements & details

Height
150-250 cm
Spread
200-400 cm
Flower Size
7-10 cm
Bloom Season
Summer
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Bat

Ecological connections

pollinates

Lesser Long-nosed Bat

Leptonycteris curasoae

Visits Agave flowers at night for nectar.

pollinates

European Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Gathers pollen and nectar from Agave flowers.

parasitizes

Agave Snout Weevil

Scyphophorus acupunctatus

Larvae bore into the plant's heart, causing damage.

eats

Human

Homo sapiens

Cultivated for food, beverages, and other uses.

Traits

Also known as

Maguey

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Be careful around agave plants as their sharp leaves can poke you. Enjoy their beauty from a safe distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Agave?

150-250 cm

How wide does Agave spread?

200-400 cm

How big are the flowers on Agave?

7-10 cm

When does Agave bloom?

Summer

Is Agave edible?

Yes

Is Agave toxic?

Mild

What is Agave's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Agave pollinated?

Bat

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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