Agave flexispina

Origin:

• • Endemic to northwestern Mexico, especially in the states of Chihuahua (western/southern, including around Matamoros, Parral, Tepehuanes), northern Durango and Zacatecas.
  • Grows naturally in oak forests, grama grasslands and on open volcanic rock slopes at 1,300–2,440 m altitude; scattered and not numerous.
• Care:
  • Compact, symmetrical rosette 25–45 cm high and 50–70 cm wide with ±30–40 leaves; Very slow growing (20+ years to flowering).
  • Requires full sun (or light shade); extremely well-drained, lean/rotten/sandy soil; Excellent drainage crucial.
  • Drought tolerant: water only when the soil is completely dry; keep almost dry in winter. Ideal for xeriscape, rock gardens or pots.
  • Hardy to about -15/17 °C (dry); USDA zone 7b–10b
  • Low maintenance: minimal fertilization (high potassium/phosphorus, low nitrogen), few pests.
• Usage:
  • Mainly as an ornamental plant: beautiful architectural accent with powder blue/green leaves, wavy edges, flexible dark red thorns and striking “bud printing”; Perfect in pots, containers, rock gardens or between boulders.